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ANECDOTES 



OF THK 

J. 






SKETCHES OF CHARACTER 



I'BRSONS THE MOST DISTINGUISHED, IN THE SOUTHERN STATES. FOl? 
GIVIL AND MILITARY SERVICES. 



BY ALEXANDER OAPn^N. 

>r lee's partisan legion ; aid-de-camp to major general greene : 

AND HONORARY MEMBER OF THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF 
NKAV-YORK. 



cannot but remember suA thing-s were." Shukspeare. 



CHARLESTON: 

^HINTED FOR THE AUTHOR, BY A. E. MILLER,. 
NO. 4, BROAD-STREET 



1822. 



:V^ 



District of isoulh-Cuiolinu, to loit : 

#0000# BE IT REMEMBERED, That on tbe first day of April, Anno Domuii, one 
Q Q thousand eight hundred and twenty-two, and in the fortj'-sixth year of the In- 

SEAL. dependence of the United States of America, Major Alexander Garden, deposited 
in this office the title of a book, the right whereof he claims as author and 

4iOOOO# proprietor, in the words following, to wit : 

" Anecdotes of the Revolutionary War in America, with Sketches of Character of persons the 
most distinguished in the Southern States, for Civil and Military services. By Alexander 
Garden, of Lee's Partisan Legion; Aid-de-Camp to Major General Greene, and Honorary 

Blember of the Historical Society of New-York. I cannot but remember such things 

were." — Shakspeare. 

In conformity with the act of Congress of the United States, entitled " An act for the 
Encouragement of Learning, by securing tbe Copies of maps, cliarts, and books, to the authors 
and proprietors of such copies, during the times thei-ein mentioned," and also to the act entitled 
" An act supplementary to an act, entitled, ' An act for the encouragement of learning, by 
securing the copies of maps, charts, and books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies, 
during the times therein mentioned', and extending the benefits thereof to the arts of designing, 
entrravinir and etching historical and other prints." 

^ ^ JABIES JERVEY, 

ClcrJc of the District of South-Carolina. 



TO 

PRESIDENT CxENERAL 

OF 

THE SOCIETY OF THE CINCINNATI. 

TO 

M^l ^tn. ^ftomuu mntUmSf 

PRESIDENT, 

AND THE OTHER MEMBERS OF THE SOCIETY 

OF THE CINCINNATI IN SOUTH-CAROLINA, 

IN GRATITUDE 

FOR LONG EXPERIENCED TESTIMONIES 

OF THEIR FAVOUR AND CORDIAL REGARD, 

THIS WORK 

IS AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED, 

BY THEIR BROTHER AND FRIEND 

THE AUTHOR. 



w® wmm maABum. 



The Author of the following pages would be deficient in 
gratitude, did he fail to return his warmest thanks for the liberal 
patronage received from the Public. The rapidity with which his 
Subscription Lists have been filed up, is not only flattering to his 
effort to give to society a Work, that properly executed, may, to the 
rising generation, prove of some utility ; but, particularly so, as it 
evinces, that an attachment to Revolutionary principles, is cherished 
in the bosoms of his fellow-citizens, with pristine ardour and admi- 
ration. It is not, however, numbers, so much as honourable names, 
that he ivould possess ; and ivhen on his lists he sees the signatures 
of many of those distinguished Ladies, whose firmness and exem^ 
plary conduct in the day of trial, dignified their sex, and adorned, 
the annals of their country ; and of venerable Patriots, whose 
wisdom in council, and valour in the field, essentially contributed to 
fix the Independence of America, he claims a right to be proud, and 
has only to hope, that his performance may justify their partiality. 

To the Honorable Judge Desaussure, and Mr. Keating Simons, 
he acknoioledges himself particularly indebted for much informa- 
tion respecting Generals Davie and Marion. To Colonel Robert 
Y. Hayne, for the sketch of the life and services of Dr. David 
Ramsay ; and to Colonel Arthur P. Hayne, for his interesting 
account of the battle of the 23d December, before New-Orleans. 
To the Honourable Judge Peters of Pennsylvania, he is indebted 
for many interesting Anecdotes; and feels pari icular obligation for 



vi TO THE READER. 

the politeness with which, though a stranger to him, they were 
generously presented. To his brother soldiers, the Honourable 
Judge Peter Johnson of Abingdon, Virginia, and Dr. Matthew 
Irvine, of Charleston, he feels peculiar gratitude for the details of 
the services of the Legionary Officers and Soldiers, and many of 
the occurrences connected loith the Army of the South. Nor is he less 
obliged to Dr. William READ,ybr his interesting statement of the 
sufferings of the Continental Army, and of the heroic fGriitude 
loitJi ivhich those intrepid Sons of Freedom supported them. Finally, 
it affords him great pleasure, to express his thanks to his friends, 
Mr. Stephen Elliott, Thomas S. Grimke, and Mitchell King, 
for their judicious advice during the progress of his Work, and aid 
in its arrangement when preparing for the press. 



CONTENTS. 



Introduction, 
Moultrie, 
Second Regiment, 
Letter from Lord Charles Mon- 
tague to General Moultrie, 
Reply to the same, 
Lieut. Colonel Isaac Motte, 
General Marion, 
Lieut. Colonel Peter Horry, 
Lieut. Colonel Mayham, 



PAGE. 

1 

7 

12 



PARTISAN COMMANDERS OF 
MILITIA. 



General Sumter, 
General Pickens, 
General Davie, 
General Barnwell, 



PAGE 

Particulars of the gallant attempt 
to rescue General de la Fayette 
from his confinement at Olmutz, 96 



SURVIVORS OF THE REVO- 
LUTION. 

General Charles C. Pinckney, 104 
General Thomas Pinckney, 110 

General Jackson, 11& 

Account of the battle of the 23d 
December, 1814, by Lieutenant 
Colonel Arthur Hay ne, 119 

CHARACTER AND CONDUCT OF 
THE OFFICERS OF LEE'S LE- 
GION. 



DISTINGUISHED CONTINENTAL 
OFFICERS. 

General Huger, 55 

General Morgan, 57 

Colonel Otho H. Williams, 59 

Colonel Howard, 60 

Colonel Carrington, 61 

Lieutenant Colonel Lee, 62 

Lieut. Colonel Washington, 68 

General Greene, 75 

OFFICERS WHO FELL IN THE 
SOUTHERN WAR. 

Colonel Owen Roberts, 85 

Lieut. Colonel John Laurens, 86 

Sergeant Jasper, 90 

Wilmott and Moore, 91 

Lieut. Colonel Richard Parker, 93 
Captains Moultrie and Neyle, and 

Lieut. Colonel Campbell, 94 

Lieut. Duval and Maj. Benj. Huger, 95 

9^ 



Capt. Joseph Eggleston, 

Capt. James Armstrong, 

Capt. Ferdinand O'Neal, 

Capt. Michael Rudolph, 

Capt. Handy, 

Lieutenant Peter Johnston, 

Lieutenant John Middleton, 

Lieutenant Clement Carrington, 

Dr. Matthew Irvine, 

Dr. Skinner, 

Lieut. Manning, and remarkable 
occurences leading to the de- 
feat of Colonel Pyle, 



123 
125 
127 

128 
130 
131 
132 
133 
134 
135 



140 



DISTINGUISHED SOLDIERS OF 
THE LEGION. 



Sergeant Whaling, 
Sergeant Mitchell, 
Bulkley and Newman. 
Corporal Cooper, 
Sergeant Ord, 
Perry Scott, 



149 
150 
151 
152 
156 
157 



CONTENTS. 



PAGE 

Patriots in the Civil Line, and pri- 
soners confined as subjects for 
retaliation, 15£ 

Exiles to St. Augustine, 16c 

Prisoners on board the Prison- 
ships, 16^ 

Ancient Battalion of Artillery, 167 



DISTINGUISHED CHARACTERS 
IN THE CIVIL DEPARTMENT 
OF GOVERNMENT 

General Gadsden, 169 

John Rutledge, 173 

Edward Rutledge, 176 

Hugh Rutledge, 177 

Dr. David Ramsay, 178 

William Henry Drayton, 183 

John Edwards, 186 

John Matthews, 189 

Benjamin Guerard, 191 

Judge Burke, 192 

Captain Richard Gough, 197 

EXEMPLARY GOOD CONDUCT 
OF THE CLERGY 

Bishop Smith, 199 

Dr. Percy and Rev. Mr. Lewis, 200 
Dr. Purcell, Rev. P. Terquatfd, 

and Rev. Samuel Warren, 201 

Rev. Josiah Smith and Rev. Mr. 

Tennant, 202 

Rev. Dr. Furman, 205 

CONDUCT OF OUR ALLIES THE 

FRENCH, 206 

•* 

Baron de CarendefFez, 207 

Chevalier de Buysson, ib. 

Chevalier Duplessis Maiduit, 208 

Lieutenant Colonel Fleur}^, 211 

Baron de Kalb, ib. 

Marquis de la Fayette, 215 

DISTINGUISHED NAVAL OFFI- 
CERS, 217 

Capt. Manly and Capt. Harraden, 218 
Capt. Geddes and Paul Jones, 219 
Captain Barry, 220 

Captain Barney, 221 

Captain Biddle, 223 

CONDUCT OF THE WHIG LA- 
DIES, 224 



Mrs. Jacob Motte, 
Mrs. Thomas Heyward, 
Mrs. Rebecca Edwards, 
Miss Mary Anna Gibbes, 
Mrs. Brewton, (since Foster) 



226 
227 
228 
229 
2oO 



PAGE 

Mrs. Channing, 234 

Mrs. Charles Elliott, 235 
Mrs. D.Hall and Mrs. C. Pinckney, 238 
Mrs. S. Elliott and Mrs. Isaac 

Holmes, 2.39 

Mrs. Richard Shubrick, 240 

Mrs. Ralph Izard, 242 

CONDUCT OF LADIES SUPPORT- 
ING OPPOSITE PRINCIPLES, 243 



Mrs. M'Culloch, &c. &c. 

Strictures on the conduct of the 
British Commanders in the 
South, 

Particulars relative to the death 
of Colonel Isaac Hayne, 

Governor Rntledge's animad- 
versions on the general con- 
duct of the *^nemy, delivered 
in his Speech to the Legisla- 
ture at Jacksonljorough, 

DISTINGUISHED BRITISH 
OFFICERS. 

Lord Cornwallis, 

Lieutenant Colonel Archibald 

Campbell, 71st, 
Lord Rawdon, 
General Webster, 
Colonel Small, 
Colonel Tarleton, 
Benedict Arnold, 
Major Andr^, 
Captors of Andre, 



244 



246 



250 



256 



272 

277 
278 
280 
282 
284 
288 
291 
292 



COMPARATIVE SUFFERING OF 
THE CONTENDING ARMIES, 295 

The most illustrious Patriots of 
Great Britain opposed to the 
American War, 312 

Letters of the Right Honourable 
\Mlliam Windiiam, on that 
subject, 315 

Notice of Botta s History, 319 

Instances of the benign interpo- 
sition of Providence in Ame- 
rican affairs, 324 



Robert Morris, 
Timothy Pickering, 
Baron Steuben, 
General Gates, 
General Conway, 
General Charles Lee. 



.333 
338 
340 
345 
351 
35? 



CONTENTS. 



XI 



Major Evan Edwards, 
General Schuyler, 



PAGE. 

356 
359 



Quaker congratulations on the 
battle of Guilford, 361 

Failure of the contemplated at- 
tack on John's Island, 363 

Contemplated mutiny of the 



army under General Greene, 


365 


Evacuation of Charleston, 


369 


MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 


Night attack on the camp of 




Gen. Wayne by Gurestessego, 




Chief of the Creek Warriors, 


373 


Major Maxwell, 


374 


General William Bufler, 


375 


Gallantry of a Boy of 14, 


378 


Lieutenant Ballard Smith, 


378 


Lieutenant Foster, 


380 


Lieutenant John Rhodes, 


381 


Lieutenant Farhana, 


382 


Mrs Wright, 


383 


Deliesseline, 


384 


Captain Gee, 


385 


Captain Zeigler, 


386 


Fickling, 


387 


Happy Escape, 


389 


Characteristic Anecdotes of Gen. 




Washington, 


393 


Old Lydick, 


394 


Michael Docherty^ 


396 


Colonel Menzies, 


398 


Yankee Captain, 


400 


Exchange of Shells, 


400 


Instance of Republican «obrais- 




sion to misfortune. 


401 


Levingstone, 


402 


Loaster, 


403 


George Petrie, 


404 


Remarkable incident, 


405 


The uninvited guest. 


406 



Important service of Major Ed- 
mund Hyrne, 406 
Lieutenant Samuel Seldon, 408 
Instance of Tarleton's severity, 409 
Additional instance, 409 
Attempt of Colonel Forrest to 

check discontent, and the result, 409 

Prayei-s for the King, 411 

Epigram, 411 

Satirical jeu desprit, 412 

Miss Franks, 412 
General Lee's letter to Miss 

Franks, 414 
Repartee of Major Upham, 416 
Sir Guy Carlton, 417 
Captain Milligan, 417 
Romantic Enterprise, 419 
M'Gill and Van Skiver, 420 
Captain Land, 424 
Judge Burke, 426 
Extraordinary Escape, 426 
Sergeant Power, 427 
Ladles' petition in behalf of Co- 
lonel Hayne, 428 
Duel between General Cadwal- 

lader and General Conway, 430 
Expulsion of Congress from Phi- 
ladelphia, 431 
Lieutenant Colonel Butler of 

Morgan's Rifle Regiment, 433 
Commodores Affleck and Swee- 
ney. 434 
Reception of General Greene at 

Philadelphia, 43i 
Meeting with the Commander 

in Chief, 436 
The effect of Peace on the Sol- 
diers' consequence in society, 437 
Propriety of naming the fami- 
lies the most distinguished by 
their revolutionary services, 439 
Distinguished individuals, 440 
Conclusion, 444 



INTRODUCTION. 



WHILE 1 YET LIVE, LET ME NOT LIVE IN VAIN.'' — AddisOTl. 



E REE from unwarrantable prejudice, I have invari- 
ably maintained, that the citizens of America during 
the war of our Revolution, had exhibited as splendid 
examples of heroic gallantry, as firm and honourable 
adherence to the cause of Liberty, as ever adorned the 
annals of any age or country. If facts sanction this 
opinion, we cannot but deeply regret, that from the en- 
croachments of time, perpetually removing, not only 
the actors in many a brilliant achievement, but even 
the witnesses of them, they will be in the course of a 
few years irretrievably lost. To diminish the evil, I 
have anxiously endeavoured, to engage some youthful 
patriot, to collect and preserve for the benefit of future 
generations, as many anecdotes relative to the war of 
1776, as appear worthy of record, and particularly, 
such, as have escaped the attention of historians. — 
My effort has proved fiuitless, and although I antici- 

1 



2 INTRODUCTION. 

pate very partial success, yet confident of meeting the 
indulsenre of my fellow citizens, who must approve 
my motive, I have at length resolved, myself to under- 
tau^ it. 

To the public I am bound by peculiar ties. In ad- 
versity they honoured me with their confidence, and re- 
warded my zeal with distinguished marks of favour, 
whatever I possess, is derived from their generosity, 
I feel the obligation in all its force, and know, that 
death, come when it may, must find my debt of grati- 
tude uncancelled.* 

I wish it were possible in pursuing my plan, to ar- 
range the facts m chronological order, but this I con- 
sider, from the nature of the work, impracticable, and 
the reader must therefore receive them, without such 
connection. The anecdotes are indeed of so diversified 
a nature, that they ought to appear as they are, inde- 
pendent of each other. Many are of a serious cast, 
and can hardly fail to excite corresponding sentiments, 
and deep reflection, while others detailing sallies of 
wit, or scenes of mirthful adventure, are fitted only to 
amuse. 

In such a work I am bound by a double sense of 
duty. First to save from oblivion, many acts of cour- 

* The author cannot sufficiently lament that he had but little share in the 
achievement of those important events which iixed the independency of the 
United States. His heart from the earliest dawn of the Revolution was devoted 
to the cause of his country, and he would have been first in the ranks of her 
armies but the Revolution found him a youth in Europe, in purs,uit of his Colle- 
giate studies, and a parent's mandate forbid it. When age permitted his return 
to America, his fortunes without a murmur were sacrificed to his principles, and 
his life, to have promoted the interests of America, would have been yielded 
without a sigh. The public witnessed his zeal and liberally rewarded it. His 
general gave him his confidence and promotion. His fellow soldiers, what he 
must ever consider his highest honour; their friendship and esteem. 



INTRODUCTION. $ 

age or magnanimity, that honour the patriots of our Re- 
volution, and secondly to excite in the bosoms of our 
youth, a laudable desire to emulate them. 

The spontaneous impulse of every heart is my best 
auxiliary. How grateful to my 3^ouns countrymen 
must it be, to read the encomiums bestowed on their 
ancestors, to dwell on the merits of those great men, 
who had wisdom to plan the deliverance of the United 
States from a foreign yoke, resolution to attempt it, 
and valour to insure their independence. In contem- 
plating the dignified firmness of their characters, the 
extent of their sufferings and the splendor of the ac- 
tions achieved in the accomplishment of their momen- 
tous undertaking, the heart ex[)ands with gratitude, the 
soul with admiration. Liberty so honourably gained, 
appears v^^ith more fascinating charms ; is cherished 
with imperishable affections, and the bosom of patriot- 
ism feels with full force, how sacred the obligation to 
transmit such a blessing, with undiminished lustre, to 
posterity. It can only be necessary, to present to view 
the characters whose achievements I would celebrate, 

*^ And b}^ their light, 
• Shall every valiant youth with ardour move, 

To do brave acts." Shakspeare. 



" For who shall lightly say, — that Fame, 

Is nothing but an empty name. 

While in that sound there is a charm, 

The nerves to brace, the heart to warm. 

As thinking of the mighty dead, 

The young from slothful couch shall start, 

And vow with lifted hands outspread, 

Like them to act, a noble part." Bailie. 



4 INTROtrtlCTlON. 

I am still further induced to persist in my Undertak- 
ing, that I may both by precept and example bear tes- 
timony against a practice, in my judgment, decidedly 
prejudicial. With such instances of every public and 
private virtue, as the history of our own country af- 
fords, I consider it a serious error in our system of 
education, that our youth receive their ^r5^ ideas of pa- 
triotic excellence, from the annals of other nations. — 
Familiar with the achievements of the heroes of an- 
cient times, the virtues and services of the worthies of 
their own country, are seldom or but imperfectly 
known. They will tell you of the retreat of Xeno- 
phon, before a horde of barbarians, while ignorant of 
the masterly manoeuvring of Gieene retiring before 
the superior and victorious army of Cornwallis. — 
They will dwell with delight on the sufferings, energy, 
and zeal of the virtuous Alfred, successfully resisting 
the ravagers of his country ; while the difiiculties and 
dangers surmounted by the inflexible Marion labouring 
under tenfold disadvantages, are altogether unknown. 
They admire Fahius as the shield, Marcellus as the 
siDord of Rome, but unless it is acquired incidentally, 
they either know not at all, or very imperfectly, that 
Washington by his wisdom and discretion in the ca- 
binet, his skill and valour in the field, may still be more 
justly called, both the sword and shield of his country. 
By this injudicious system, a prejudice arises, which 
from the strength of early impressions, it is ever diffi- 
cult to shake off. Comparisons are made altogether 
to the advantage of antiquity, and an ambition to ar- 
rive at excellence impaired, by a seeming confession of 



INTRODUCTION. 5 

inability to attain it. I rejoice to think that this can* 
not be an evil of long continuance. The lives of the 
illustrious patriots of our Revolution, presented to view 
by the pen of intelligence, a natural consequence must 
ensue : — They Vvill learn to " hold honour far more 
dear than life." If candidates foi'/mne, admiring the 
heroes of Rome^ will they not with greater enthusiasm 
revere and emulate the valour of their immediate an- 
cestry ? If the justice and magnanimity of Grecian 
worthies delight them, it is impossible not to conclude, 
that these virtues will be aspired to, w^ith still higher 
admiration, when exemplified in the history of their 
own country. 

Agisilaus king of Sparta, being asked, "' what ought 
children to learn," replied, " that which they ought to 
practice, when they become men." No sentiment vi^as 
ever expressed more conformable to the principles of 
our government. Next to their duty towards God, 
there is not a parent who ought not to impress upon 
the minds of his children, the devotion which is due 
their country ; and how can this be more effectually 
done, than from the dawn of reason, to keep in their 
view, those virtues, which have raised the benefactors 
of the republic, to immortality. It is not my inten- 
tion to attempt a history of the southern war. In free- 
ly offering strictures on the mode in which it was con- 
ducted, opportunity is afforded of attaining the end at 
which I aim. A delineation of the injustice and op- 
pression, of wanton insult and ruthless severity, exer- 
cised on the one part, will afford ample occasion to re- 
late the firmness with which they were met, and to 



e INTRODUCTION. 

detail the animating examples of patient suffering, in- 
flexible perseverance and intrepidity, by which they 
were surmounted on the other. In animadverting on^^ 
the cruelty and impolicy of the measures pursued T 
shall be led to criticise the conduct of the commanders 
by whom they were adopted ; and rhis will bring into 
view, the prominent characters who opposed them. — 
I would further observe, that as it is my plan to collect 
Aiiecdotes, I shall not endeavour by indulging fancy, to 
give them the advantage of attractive dress. I shall 
studiously aim at simplicity in detail, and laying no 
claim to originality, be content, if the merit is allowed, 
of making them useful and acceptable to my country- 
men. This is the only reward I desire, and it is my 
trust that I shall receive it. 



ANECDOTES 



OP THE 



mi^olntiornvs ssaa^tr (n nmtvttu 



MOULTRIE. 



A HE first conflict of the Carolinians with the ene- 
my, ^ave such reputation to the character of the coun- 
try, and was so hi2[;hly creditahle to General Moultrie, 
who commanded the post attacked on that memorable 
day,(the28th of Jnne)that it may be considered an act of 
justice in detailing the Anecdotes of the Revolutionary 
War, to commence with giving the particulars of the ac- 
tion. The defence of the pass at Sullivan's Island, may 
be compared with many of the splendid achievements 
which Grecian eloquence has rendered illustrious. — 
Impressed with prejudices as strong as Xerxes ever 
cherished against Greece, the commanders of the Bri- 
tish forces approached our coast, not to conciliate, but 
subdue. Exulting in the supposed superiorty of their 
discipline and valour, they spoke in the language of 
authority, and would listen to no terms short of un- 
conditional submission. They too had been taught by 
the insinuations of insidious flattery, to entertain a 
thorough contempt for their enemy, and to brand them 



a MOULTRIE. 

with the harshest appellations of infamy and reproach ; 
and the extraordinary delay of their military operations, 
can alone be accounted for, by their belief, that it was 
only necesssary to allow the Americans a sufficient 
time to reflect on the critical situation in which they 
were placed, to induce them to abandon the pass with- 
out a struggle, and seek safety by flight. On the other 
hand, the gallant Moultrie, commanding a corps, for- 
midable only by their Jboldness and resolution, impa- 
tiently waited their approach. He was not insensible 
of the insufficiency of a work hastily constructed, and 
in every part incomplete, to afford the shelter requi- 
site against, a force so formidable as that before him. 
The advice of the experienced veteran Lee, called for 
its abandonment.* A necessary supply of ammunition 
was withheld, but seconding the bolder wishes of Pres- 
ident Rutledge,t and considering himself pledged to 
give a proof to the enemy of American valour, he 
scorned the disgrace of relinquishing the post he had 
sworn to defend, and heroically prepared for action. — 
The attatfk was commenced by the British with intre- 
pidity, and maintained throughout the course of twelve 
hours, with a gallantry that would have dignified a 
better cause, but naught could subdue the firmness of 
the garrison, resolved to repel the foe, or nobly perish, 
they received the tremendous fire of the shipping with 
composure, and returned it with terrible effect, till 

* General Lee styled the post at Sullivan's Island a slaughter pen, denounced 
its defence, and pronouncing disgrace on the measure, should it be persisted in, 
earnestly requested the President to order it to be evacuated. 

t Happily for the nation, its destinies were at that period, guided by that in- 
flexible patriot John Rutle©ge, who confidently relying on Moultrie, and his 
intrepid band, heroically replied to Lee, '- That while a soldier remained aJive 
to defend it, he would never give his sanction to such an order." The result 
proved the accuracy of his judgment. The following laconic note was at the 
same time forwarded to Colonel Moultrie. " General Lee wishes you to 
evacuate the fort. You will not without an order from me. I will sooner cut 
off my hand than write one. John Rutledge." 



MOULTRIE. 9 

valour accomplished, what prudence had declared im- 
practicable, and the retreat of the assailants, adorned 
the brows of every individual concerned, with laurels 
that can never fade. 

The subsequent good conduct of General Moultrie, 
increased his military reputation and secured to him 
the perfect confidence and respect of his fellow sol- 
diers, and warm applause of his country. He engag- 
ed a British force, on Port Royal Island, with brilliant 
success, and conducted the retreat of a division of the 
army on the invasion of Provost, with an ability that 
saved the capital. His correspondence with Lord 
Charles Montague, while a prisoner at Haddrell's, 
sufficiently proves the steadiness of his principles and 
incorruptible integrity. The Eulogy to his memory,* 
published by order of the State Society of the Cincin- 
nati, of which he was President, gives ample testimo- 
ny of the veneration and affection entertained towards 
him by its members, and as it contains a just estimate 
of his private virtues as well as of his public utility, 
will not 1 hope be considered irrelevant, nor prove un- 
acceptable to tlie admirers of patriotic virtue. 



EULOGY. 

The 27th of September, 1805, will long be remem- 
bered with interest by every virtuous citizen of South 
Carolina. On that day, deei)ly regretted by every in- 
dividual who had sense to appreciate, and gratitude to 
acknowledge the pre-eminence of his patriotic virtues, 
died, in the seventy-fifth year of his age, the venerable 
Major General Moultrie, who, by uniform suffrage, had 
presided over this Society from its first institution. — 
As a revolutionary character, his steadiness in princi- 

* Written by the Author. 

2 



10 MOULTRIE. 

pie, his valour in the field, were particularly conspi- 
cuous. As a soldier, it was his fortune to check, and 
with an effect that paralized every subsequent exertion, 
the first efforts of a powerful and inveterate foe, for 
the subjugation of his country. Bold as Leonidas, he 
defended the strait committed to his charge, against 
a superior force^ that had been deemed irresistible ; and, 
more fortunate than the Spartan hero, lived in honour- 
able old age, under the shade of his laurels, to share 
with a grateful nation, the liberty his successful exer- 
tions had so happily contributed to establish. As a 
patriot it was equally his glory, disdainfully to rv^ject 
the bribes of a nation, who, repeatedly foiled by his 
valour, hoped with better success to corrupt this integri- 
ty, and like another Fabricius to show to the admiring 
world, how insignificant the power of gold, to shake 
the principles of a heart, warmed with the genuine 
glow of heaven-born liberty. In private life, his dis- 
position was frank, liberal, sincere, his manners sim- 
ple and conciliating. Duplicity and disguise were 
odious to a nature fixed on the firmest basis of candour 
and truth. As a husband, father, master, he was af- 
fectionate, gentle, most indulgent ; in short, as has been 
said of a great statesman, and distinguished patriot,, 
" he was every thing to his family, but what he gave 
up to his country." When in future ages men shall 
seek examples of distinguished worth and excellence. 
Fame with delight, shall tell the unshaken faith, and 
gallant deeds of Moultrie. While, as brother sol- 
diers, we offer this sincere, though inadequate tribute 
of respect to his^ memory, it is with pleasure we re- 
flect, that the artillery, cav^alry, and several volunteer 
corps of the city, together with a considerable concourse 
of the most respectable and patriotic of our citizens, at- 
tended his body to the grave, testifying their respect for 
his virtues, and unfeigned sorrow for the event, which 
deprived his country of one of its most distinguished, 
and estimable public characters." 



MOULTRIE. 1 1 

The happy escape of the general durins the siege of 
Charleston, deserves to be recorded. The fatigue ex- 
perienced by severe duty on the lines, had so much 
overcome him, that to renew his energies, he took up 
his quarters for one night, in Elliott's buildings, near 
the centre of the city, where there was the least chance 
of interruption, to the rest he sought for. A tremen- 
dous fire about the dawning of day, roused him from 
his slumbers, lie started from his bed, and was hurrying 
on his regimentals, when a shot striking the house, 
entered the apartment, and lodged in the bed from 
which he had risen. The delay of a few moments, 
must have proved fatal to him. 

The venerable Captain Richard Bahon Baker, now 
residing on Sullivan's Island, within view of the scene 
of his early achievements, and Mr. David Adams, of 
Charleston, who served as a cadet, in the company 
commanded by Captain Shubrick, alone remain of the 
intrepid band, who fought under Moultrie, on the 
memorable 28th of June, 1776. 



ANECDOTE OF JOHN RUTLEDGE. 

It was my good fortune, many years after this cele- 
brated victory, to meet Governor Rutledge on the spot, 
where the action of the 28th of June was fought, when 
the recollection of the triumphs of the da}^, filling his 
soul with enthusiastic delight, he exclaimed : " I re- 
member the engagement as if it were fought but yes- 
terday ! 1 remember my perfect confidence in Moultrie ! 
I have all the scene before me too, when I visited the 
post, to express the thanks of the country to the heroes 
who had defended it. There stood Moultrie, there 
Blotte, there Marion, Horry, and the intrepid band, 
whom they commanded. I addressed them with an 
energy of feeling, that I had never before experienced, 



It MOULTRIE. 

and if ever I had pretension to eloquence, it was at 
that moment." 

I will not dwell on a subject, to which it is impossi- 
ble for me to do justice, but briefly state, that inspired 
by it, and animated as if the objects of his commenda- 
tion were immediately before him, he delivered himself 
in an eloquent and impressive strain of eulosy, so per- 
fectly fascinating, that had his first address but borne 
a shadow of resemblance to it, there could not have 
been a man among his auditors, who would not have 
been proud to die, for liberty and his country. I have 
often heard of the strong impression made at the mo- 
ment of delivery by this celebrated harangue. Cerraiii 
it is, that under its animating influence, new honours 
crowned the valiant defenders of the post, and to the 
last, the gallant second regiment, were covered with 
glory. 

THE SECOND REGIMENT. 

Proud of the encomiums bestowed on their valour, 
encouraged by the animating address of the governor, 
to aim at the achievement of new honours, the feelings 
of the gallant second regiment, were still more highly 
excited, when Mrs. Barnaid Elliott, presenting an ele- 
gant pair of colours, thus addressed them : 
" Gentlemen Soldiers, 

" Your gallant behaviour, in defence of your country, 
entitles you to the highest honours ! Accept of these 
two standards as a reward justly due to your regiment, 
and I make not the least doubt, but that under heaven's 
protection, you will stand by them as long as they can 
wave in the air of liberty." 

Her anticipations were fully justified in the sequel. 
During the assault at Savannah, they were both planted 
on the British lines. The statement which I am about 
to give of the event, differs widely from that which has 



MOULTRIE, \$ 

been generally received ; but that it is rorrect, cannot 
be rloubted, as it was afforded me by Lieutenant James 
Legare, whose services and character, entitle him to 
all credit. He was present in the action and immedi- 
art ly in front of the colours at the time that the officers 
who bore them were killed. Lieutenant Brush, sup- 
ported by Sergeant Jasper, carried the one, Lieutenant 
Grey, supported by Serjeant McDonald, the other. 
Brush being wounded early in the action, delivered his 
standard to Jasj)er, for its better security, who, already 
wounded, on receiving a second shot, restored it. Brush 
at the moment receiving a mortal wound, fell into the 
ditch, \\ ith the colours under him, which occasioned 
their remaining in the hands of the enemy. Lieutenant 
Grey receiving a mortal wound, his colours were seized 
by MrDonald, who i)lanted them on the redoubt, but 
on hearing an order to retreat, plucked them up again, 
aji'i carried them off in safety. 

It is highly grateful to me, to recollect an occurrence 
which strongly evinces how deeply the love of coun- 
try is impressed on the human heart. Meeting an 
officer in the British service, who was a native of Ca- 
rolina, in the streets of Edinburgh, shortly after the 
accounts of Moultrie's gallant defence of his post had 
reached Europe : He said, as he approached me, " I 
see trium|)h in your countenance, and do not wonder 
at it. I cannot but lament that his majesty's fleet has 
been beaten, but as the event has happened, I rejoice 
that the victory has been gained by Carolinians,'^^ 



LETTER FROM LORD C. MONTAGUE TO GENERAL MOULTRIE. 

"M«rcA 11 </i, 1781. 

'^ Sir, — A sincere wish to promote what may be to your advantage, 

induces me now to write; and the freedom with which we have often 

conversed, makes me hope that you will not take amiss what I say. 

My own principles i-especting the commencement of this unfortunate 



14 MOULTRIE. 

war are well known to you, and of course, you can conceive what I 
mention is out of friendship. You have fought bravely in the cause 
of your country for many years, and, in my opinion, fulfilled the duty 
every individual owes to it. You have had your share of hardships 
and difficulties, and if the contest is still to be continued, younger hands 
should now take the toil from you. You have now a fair opening of 
quitting that service, with honour and reputation to yourself, by going 
to Jamaica with me. The world will readily attribute it to the known 
friendship that has subsisted between us : and by quitting this country' 
for a short time, you will avoid any disagreeable conversations, and 
might return at leisure, to take possession of your estates for yourself 
and family. Appointed to command a regiment, the proof I can give 
3^ou of my sincerity is, that I will quit that command to you with 
pleasure, and serve under you. I earnestly wish that I could be the 
instrument to effect what I propose, as I think it would be a great 
means towards promoting that reconciliation we all wish for : a 
thousand circumstances concur to make this a proper period for you 
to embrace : our old acquaintance — my having been formerly gov- 
ernor of this province : the interest I have with the present com- 
manders. 

" I give 3'ou my honour, what I write is entirely unknown to the 
commandant, or to any one else ; so shall your answer be, if you 
favour me with one. Think well of me. Yours sincerely. 

CHARLES MONTAGUE." 

^' General Moultrie.^^ 



7^0 LORD CHARLES MONTAGUE. 

''HaddreWs Point, March 12ih, 17 SI. 
'^My Lord, — I received your's this morning by Fisher, I thank you 
for your wish to promote my advantage, but am much surprised at 
your proposition. I flattered myself, that I stood in a more favoura- 
ble light with you. I shall write with the same freedom, with which 
v/e used to converse, and doubt not you will receive it with the same 
candour. I have often heard you express your sentiments respecting 
this unfortunate war, when you thought the Americans injured ; but 
am now astonished to find you taking an active part against them ; 
though not fighting particularly on the continent, yet seducing their 
soldiers away, to enlist in the British service, is nearly similar. 



MOULTRIE. 15 

" My Lord, you are pleased to compliment me with having fought 
bravely in my country's cause for many years, and in your opinion, 
fulfilled the duty every individual owes to it. I difier very widely 
with you, in thinking that I have discharged my duty to ray country, 
while it is still deluged in blood, and overrun with f3ritish troops, who 
exercise the most savage cruelties. When I entered into this contest, 
I did it with the most mature deliberation, and with a determined re- 
solution, to risk my life and fortune in the cause. The hardships I 
have gone through, I look back upon with the greatest pleasure and 
honour to myself. I shall continue to go on as I have begun, that 
my example may encourage the youths of America to stand forth in 
defence of their riglits and liberties. You call u])on me now, and tell 
me I have a fair opening of quitting that service with honour and re- 
putation to myself, by going with you to Jamaica. Good God ! is it 
possible that such an idea could arise in the breast of a man of honour. 
I am sorry you should imagine, I have so little regard for my own re- 
putation, as to listen to such dishonourable proposals ; would you 
wish to have the man whom you have honoured with your friendship 
play the traitor ? Surely not. You say by quitting this country for 
a short time, I might avoid disagreeable conversations, and might re- 
turn at my own leisure, to take possession of my estates for myself 
and family j but you have forgot to tell me how I am to get rid of the 
feelings of an injured honest heart, and where to hide myself from 
myself ; could I be guilty of so much baseness, I should hate myself 
and shun mankind. This would be a fatal exchange from my pres- 
ent situation, with an easy and approved conscience of having done 
my duty and conducted myself as a man of honour. My Lord, I am 
sorry to observe, that I feel your friendship much abated, or you would 
not endeavour to prevail upon me to act so base a part. You earn- 
estly wish you could bring it about, as you think it will be the means 
of bringing about that reconciliation that we all wish for. I wish for 
a reconciliation as much as any man, but only upon honourable 
terms. The repossessing of my estates ; the offer of the command of 
your regiment, and the honour you propose of serving under me, are 
paltry considerations to the loss of my reputation ; no, not the fee 
siriiple of that valuable Island of Jamaica, should induce me to part 
with my integrity. IVIy Lord, as you have made one proposal, give 
me leave to make another, which will be more honourable to us both ; 
as you have an interest with your commanders, I would have you pur- 
pose the withdrawing the British troops from the continent of America^ 



16 MOULTRIE. 

allow the independence, and propose a peace. This being done, I 
will use my interest with my commanders to accept of the terms, and 
allow Great Britain a free trade with America. My Lord, I would 
make one proposal,* but my situation as a prisoner, circumscribes me 
within certain bounds, I must therefore conclude, with allowing you 
the free liberty to make what use of this you think proper. Think 
better of me. I am my Lord, your Lordship's most obedient humble 
servant, 

WM. MOULTRIE. 

* " Which was to advise him to come over to the Americans : this propo- 
sal I could not make wlien on parole." — Moullrlcs Revolution. 

The publication of this note has s;reatly mortified me. I had always be- 
lieved, that nothing but the restriction imposed by his parole, had preven- 
ted General Moultrie from making an appeal to the sword to convince Lord 
C. Montague, how keenly he felt the insult of his degrading offer. 



JNIOTTE. 



LIEUT. COL. ISAAC MOTTE. 

MouLTiiJE, on the 28th of June, was nobly support- 
ed by his comi)ainions in arms. Lieut. Col. Motte, 
the second in command, educated as a soldier, had 
served with distinction in Canada, in the war of 1756, 
and in the engagement with Sir Peter Parker, gave a 
spirited demonstration of what might have been ex- 
])ected from his subsequent exertions. His influence 
and abilities, were considered by the enemy, of the 
highest importance, and bribes, such as might have 
tempted any other than an inflexible patriot, were of- 
fered to induce him to join the standard which he had 
often with gallantry supported. But having embraced 
and sworn devotion to the cause of America, they were 
indignantly rejected, and to the last, his enthusiasm 
received the most unlimited applause. It is much to 
be lamented, that so meritorious an officer should at 
an early period of the war have quitted a service to 
which he did great honour. But, with the public weal 
continually in view, we find him in the civil depart- 
ment of government an active agent, and so much to 
the increase of his reputation, that on the establish- 
ment of the Federal Union, he was immediately ap- 
pointed by President Washington, to a post of trust 
and emolument, which he enjoyed to the end of his 
days. 



18 MARION. 



GENERAL MARION. 

Among the companions of Moultrie, there was none 
who, at a future day, attained as much celebrity as 
Francis Mafuon. 

To an officer of so ardent and honourable feeling, 
the accident^ which prevented his acting with his gal- 
lant associates of the second regiment in defence of 
the capital, must have proved peculiarly afflicting. He 
had shared with tiiem, the toils and dangers of battle, 
and fully partaken of their well earned fame. To be 
separated, therefore, at a moment when new difficul- 
ties presented themselves, and a threatning cloud over- 
shadowed the destines of a community, whose hopes 
of security, rested on their exertions, and those of their 
companions in arms, must necessarily have excited his 
deepest regrets. Yet, great as the affliction must have 
been to individual feeling, it cannot be otherwise 
considered, than as the event that more than any other, ^ 
gave ultimate security, happiness, and independency, 
to his country. I never undertook an essay, with so 
little hope of executing it with satisfaction to myself, 
and justice to the hero, whose actions I would cele- 
brate ; as in attempting to delineate the character and 
chivalric gallantry, of General Marion. 

• Lieut. Col. Marion had dined a few days previously to the siege of 
Charleston, with a friend residing in the house next to Roupell's, in Tradd- 
street, and to the east of it. A mistaken idea of hospitality had occasioned 
his entertainer, according to the universal practice of the day, to turn the 
key upon his guests, to prevent escape, till each individual should be gorged 
to a surfeit with wine ?vIarion, attempting to make his escape by a window, 
fell into the street and dislocated his ancle in a shocking manner. The ac- 
cident saved him from captivity. Non-elFectives \n ere ordered to retire from 
the city. His freedom gave safety to his country. From his active spirit 
arose that determined opposition, to the British power, that blasted their 
fondly cherished expectation of supremacy, and ultimately caused their ex- 
pulsion from the state. 



MARION. 19 

FortimatHy neither the pure exalted traits of his 
patriotism, nor the brilliant achievements of his sword, 
need the aid of embellishment. His virtues speak di- 
rectly to the heart. His victories are emblazoned in 
their momentous consequences to his country. What 
greater praise can be bestowed on his character, than 
to say, — and where is there a man that will deny its 
justice, — that to the most exalted sentiments, he united 
the most charming simplicity of manners; and, to 
the courage of a soldier, an inexhaustible fund of 
humanity. Of his pre-eminent ability as a partisan 
officer, successfully opposing an active and enterprising 
enemy, wnth an inferiority of force that is scarcely 
credible — there can exist no doubt. He entered the 
field without men — without resources of any kind, and 
at a period, when a great proportion of the inhabitants 
of the district in which he commanded, either from a 
conviction of the inutility of resistance, or the goad- 
ings of unceasing persecution, had made their submis- 
sion to the enemy. To concealment, he was indebted 
for security — and stratagem sui)plied the place of force. 
Yet always on the alert — striking where least expect- 
ed — retiring when no advantage could be hoped for by 
exposure, he progressively advanced in tire career of 
success, till a superiority was obtained that put down 
all opposition. Far more disposed essentially to benefit 
his country, than to give, by brilliant enterprise, increase 
to his own military reputation, his first care was the 
preservation of the troops whom he commanded, by 
studiously avoiding an unnecessary hazard of their lives. 
It was this prudential conduct, that so frequently occa- 
sioned a temporary retirement into fastnesses, where 
pursuit was rarely ventured on, and if persisted in, in- 
variably attended with discomfiture and disgrace. — 
But, did occasion invite to victory — did carelessness in 
command, or the idea of security arising from distance 
put the enemy, though but for an instant, off their 



20 MARION. 

guard, — the rapidity of his movements, the impetuosity 
of his attacks nevvr failed to render tlie blow inflicted 
decisive, and their destruction complete. Victory af- 
forded additional claim to applause. Giving the rein 
to the most intrepid gallantry, and in battle exhibiting 
all the iire and impetuosity of youth, there never was 
an enemy who yielded to his valour, who had not 
cause to admire and eulogize his subsequent humanity. 
The strictness of the discipline invariably maintained, 
prevented every species of irregularity among his troops. 
His soul, was his country's — his pride, the rigid ob- 
servance of her laws. His ambition, to defend her 
rights, and [)reserve immaculate her honour and her 
fame. " It would have been as easy to torn the Sun 
from his course, as Marion from the paths of honour.-' 
A memorable instance of his attachment to an honest 
fame, is thus recorded in an Oration, delivered on the 
4th of July, 1797, before the Revalution and Cincin- 
nati Societies.* 

" A motion being made in the Legislature, immedi- 
ately subsequent to the war, to exempt from investiga- 
tion the conduct of the partisan corps of militia, who- 
from the nature of the service in which they had been 
engaged, were supposed necessarily to have committed 
irregularities. The venerable Marion, the flush of 
virtuous indignation overs|)reading his countenance, 
nobly demanded that his name should be expunged from 
the Bill. *' For if" said he " in the course of com- 
mand, I have in a single instance departed from the 
strict line of propriety, or given the slightest cause of 
complaint to any individual whatever, justice requires, 
that I should suffer for it." 

Of his military prowess, innumerable instances croud 
upon my memory. But, before I attempt to detail 
them, I would gladly speak of his uniform forbearance,. 

* By the Author. 



MARIOxNT. 21 

tenderness, and attention to the unfortunates who had 
in the unguarded moments of despondency, swerved 
from the strict line of duty — and appeared to have for- 
gotten the devotion pledged to their country. He 
was never heard to upbraid them. He sought not 
by the exercise of implacable resentment to drive 
them to desperation. He knew the frailty of human 
nature, and made proper allowances for it. He 
was sensible that many an individual, to save his 
family from the impending encroachments of absolute 
want — to protect them under the ravages of disease, 
likely to rob him of the children of his affection, the 
wife of his bosom, his friends, his fortune — had reluc- 
tantly given his promise of submission, while every 
sentiment of his heart, every wish that it cherished, was 
in unison and coincided with the patriotic prhiciples 
of his country. He blamed their errors, but attemi)ted 
not to correct them by coercion. The impolicy of the 
enemy he justly counted upon as a powerful auxiliary, 
and making mercy and gentleness the guides of his 
conduct, by the suavity and conciliation of his man- 
ners, not only reconciled them to themselves, and re- 
vived the ho[)es of a pardon des[)aired of, but added 
greater increase to the strength of the armies of his 
country than could have been obtained by the most 
decisive victory. The simplicity of conduct, preserved 
under all circumstances was above praise; the cheer- 
fulness with which he endured privations, surpassed 
encomium. An anecdote is related of him, of the 
authenticity of which, many of his followers can still 
give testimony. I name one of them, Lieut. J. H. 
Stevens, of Mayham's regiment, who was an eye wit- 
ness of the occurrence. 

A British officer was sent from the garrison at 
Georgetown, to negotiate a business interesting to both 
armies ; when this was concluded, and tlie officer about 
to return, the general said, " If it suits your conve- 



22 MARION. 

nience sir, to remain for a short period, I shall be glac! 
of\yonr company to dinner." The mild and dignified 
simplicity of Marion^s manners, had already produced 
their effect ; and, to prolong so interesting an inter- 
view, the invitation was accepted. The entertainment 
was served up on pieces of bark, and consisted entirely 
of roasted potatoes, of which the general eat heartily, 
requesting his guest to profit by his example, repeating 
the old adage, that " hunger was an excellent sauce." 
*' But surely general," said the officer, " this cannot 
be your ordinary fare." '' Indeed it is sir," he replied, 
" and we are fortunate on this occasion, entertaiiiing 
company, to have more than than our usual allow- 
ance." 

It is said, that on his return to Georgetown, this officer 
immediately declared his conviction, that men wlio 
could without a murmur endure the difficulties and 
dangers of the field, and contentedly relish such sim- 
ple and scanty fare, were not to be subdued ; and, 
resigning his commission, immediately retired from 
the service. 

To the honour of his humanity, it may be further 
added, that he never suffered insult to aggravate the 
misfortunes of the families of the tories steadily adher- 
ing to the British cause ; but, on the contrary, assuaged 
their sufferings, and used every effort to reclaim the 
deluded enthusiasts, by whom they were abandoned. 
By such conduct, a number of inveterate enemies were 
converted into useful citizens, and many a hardy sol- 
dier given to the rejiublic, whose services had other- 
wise been irretrievably lost. Independent of the glory 
obtained in partisan warfare, General Marion acquired 
great increase of reputation by the assistance bestowed 
and judicious conduct exhibited, in conducting the 
sieges of the captured posts held by the enemy. At 
Georgetown, Fort Watson, Fort Motte and Granby, 
his activity was rewarded by the most flattering enco- 



MARION. . 23 

miums of his commander. The blow inflicted on the 
cavahy of the enemy, drawn into an ambuscade near 
Parker's Ferry, so effectually checked their spirit of 
marauding, that in that vicinity they were never known 
to aj)pear a^ain. His i;allantry at Eutaw, gave in- 
crease to his fame, and there exists not a doubt, but 
that naught but tlieir rapid retirement to the vicinity 
of Charleston, saved their entire army from captivity. 
When such a succession of military achievement, snch 
a display of exalted virtue, was daily shown, it is not 
necessary to bestow the homage of higher admiration. 
One fact however cannot be forgotten, and is truly 
worthy of record. With the end of the war, the poli- 
tical animosities of General Marion expired. His 
magnanimity spurned the thought of adding to the 
miseries of men who were no longer in a situation to 
do injury, and whose f)unishment compelled to forego 
the deliiihts of cherished home, to wander exiles in a 
foreign land, was fully proportioned to the extent of 
their offences. While, therefore, to the retiring refugees, 
the supplies were uniformly denied, which could con- 
tribute to the comfort of their families. General 
Marion, through the interposition of their friends, 
generously permitted every comfort and necessary re- 
freshment to be conveyed to them ; and the blessings 
of the afflicted rested on him. 

Of the conduct and character of so good and great 
a man as General Marion, some further details will 
not, I trust, prove unacceptable.* 

The friends of loyalty, adherents to the British 
armies, closely united, and possessing unbounded in- 
fluence betwixt the two Pedee rivers, were always on 
the alert and caused so much annoyance, that the whig 
inhabitants in their vicinity, who would otherwise have 

* They were furnished me by the venerable patriot, Mr. Keating Simons, 
who acted as his Brigade Majo-, and whose word is a sufficient testimony 
«f their correctness and aulheaticity. 



24 . MARION. 

been actively employed against the enemy, were corn- 
pelled to remain at home, to check their depredationsj 
and give security and protection to their families, lb 
paralize their activity, which was a perpetual source 
of anxiety, more especially as their numbers were three 
times as great as tliose of his own troops, General 
Marion with judicious policy, entered into a truce for 
a year, by v\diich it was stipulated, that neither pa^iy 
should use aggression towards the other, nor pass cer- 
tain limits, which were distinctly marked. Freed from 
the apprehension of immediate hostility, he now hoped 
to be enabled, essentially, to aid the operations of Gen- 
eral Greene. But the moment that distance had lulled 
their fears, the enmities of his opponents were revived, 
they crossed the bounds prescribed, and became as be- 
fore both troublesome and dangerous. Petitions were 
now presented to General Marion, soliciting, that he 
would march his brigade into the neighbourhood, and 
at the expiration of the treaty, reduce these disorderly 
men to submission. These he immediately forwarded 
to Governor Matthews and General Greene, who ap- 
proving the measure, furnished him with letters to the 
Governor of North Carolina, who was solicited to give 
every possible aid to his operations. General Marion 
who had deeply reflected on the object in view, had 
already formed his plans, and three parties were ready 
to enter the truce ground, in opposite quarters, with 
orders to strike with a decision, that should at once 
crush every thought of future resistance. At his ap- 
proach these deluded people, who were well acquaint- 
de with his firmness, and fully apprized of his humanity, 
became panic struck, and though thrice his number, 
Hocked in crowds to his camp, tendering submission, and 
demanding written protections. The consumption of 
l^aper on the occasion was so great, every individual 
claiming a certificate of pardon, that the supply at 
head-quarters and that of every individual in camp^ 



MARION. 25 

was exhausted, and even the parts of letters not writ- 
ten on, were put in requisition to indulge their wishes. 
The period of the truce being nearly expired, the bri- 
gade was halted at Burch's Mills, on the Pedee. It 
was at that spot that a Captain Butler, who headed a 
marauding party under a British commission, surren- 
dered himself on the terms held out to the disaffected, 
by a recent proclamation of Governor Matthews. A 
more sanguinary being did not exist. He had cruelly 
op|)ressed the whig inhabitants ; and but a little before, 
murdered some of the Americans, whose friends were 
then in eam|). Irritated to madness, and to a dis- 
regard of all sense of duty, at the thought, that such a 
man was, by submission, to escape the just reward of 
his crimes, a hasty and intemperate message was sent 
to the general, purporting, that such a villain as Butler 
should not receive protection. To this insulting com- 
munication. General Marion calmly replied : — '* Con- 
fidently believing, that the pardon offered by Governor 
Matthews, would be granted, the man whom you 
would destroy, has submitted. Both law and honour 
sanction my resolution. I will take him to my tent, 
and at the hazard of my life, protect him." A second 
message now informed him, that Butler should be 
dragged from his tent and put to death — since it was 
an insult to humanity, that such a wretch should be 
defended. *The honourable feeling of Marion was 
now exalted to the highest pitch, and calling the gen- 
tlemen of his family together, he exclaimed : — " Is 
there a man among you, who will refuse his aid, in 
defending the laws of his country ? I know you too 
well to suppose it ! Prepare, then, to give me your 
assistance ; for, though I consider the villainy of 
Butler unparalleled, yet, as an officer acting under 
orders, I am bound to defend him ; and I will do so, 
though I perish." He then collected a guard around 
the tent, into which he had introduced him, and at an 

4 



26 MARIOxN. 

early hour after night fall, had him conveyed to a place 
of security. 

Major Ganey, who commanded the British ad- 
herents within the truce ^lound, thought it now high 
time to negociate ; and having sent in propositions for 
that purpose to General Marion, commissioners were 
appointed to form a treaty. Unhappily, some allu- 
sions in conversation, to the escapes which one party 
had made in conflicts from the other, excited all the 
irritation of deadly animosity, and they separated with 
unabated resentments. > Marion was grievously mor- 
tified by tlie failure of his commissioners ; and feeling 
great anxiety to move to the lower country, the better 
10 protect the families and property of those who had 
joined him, now left at the mercy of the British, de- 
termined to meet Ganey personally. Appointing, 
therefore, the gentlemen of his family as commis- 
sioners, to aid him in negotiation, Gainey was invited, 
with such of his associates as he chose to name on his 
part, to cross the river, under the sacred pledge of 
protection, and a treaty was speedily perfected, that 
put a final termination to all opposition in the interior. 
The basis of this treaty was, that all who wished to 
join the British standard, were to receive safe conduct 
for person and property, till arrived within their lines. 
That all who wished to be reconciled to their country, 
were to obtain pardon for past ofiences, and be re- 
ceived as citizens ; and that persons found within the 
limits of the truce ground, after an appointed day, 
without having submitted themselves, were to be re- 
garded as enemies. Ganey removed with those who 
preferred adhesion to the British ; but, before his 
departure, said to General Marion — " Honour requires 
that I should surrender my commission to Colonel 
Balfour, from whom I received it. But, having done 
so, I shall immediately return to the country, and seek 
your protection." He strictly performed his promise ; 



MARION 27 

and it is remarkable, that at Watboo, placed in the 
ranks with about forty of his men, at the very point 
on which the British cavalry made their principal 
attack, greatly contributed to their discomfiture and 
repulse. Several of General Marion's principal offi- 
cers were impressed with the opinion, that he had 
committed his dignity, in personally treating with 
Ganey, whom they regarded in no better light, than 
a leader of banditti ; but he silenced their censures, 
by asserting — " That the only dignity he aspired to, 
was that of essentially serving his country." 

About this period the celebrated marauder. Fanning, 
of North Carolina, arrived in the truce ground. He 
was a most determined enemy; resolute and san- 
guinary, and possessed such distinguished talents for 
j>artisan warfare, that much apprehension was enter- 
tained, that he would again stir up the spirit of revolt, 
and induce Ganey to break his engagements. But an 
end was speedily put to suspense. A flag arriving from 
him, with a request, that General Marion would grant 
safe conduct to his wife, and some property, to the Bri- 
tish garrison, in Charleston. Compliance w^as the im- 
mediate consequence. Most of the officers believed it 
bad policy, but the general justified his conduct, by 
saying : " Let but his wife and property reach the Bri- 
tish lines, and Fanning will not fail to follow them; 
but, force them to remain — deny the flag required, and 
we fix a serpent in our bosoms." Fanning finding no 
hope of exciting insurrection, fled the country, and was 
nearly as soon as his wife within the garrison. The 
general, moving into the truce ground, now busied 
himself in securing the persons of every individual, 
who, declining to retire within the British lines, still 
fused submission to American authority. In the exe- 
cution of this duty, a hint was given to the general, 
that irregularities had been indulged that were highly 
disgraceful to the military character, which occasioned 



28 MARION. 

him, with his usual frankness, to declare, at table, *' I 
have heard insinuations of conduct exercised, that 
would disgrace my command ; no regular accusation 
has been made; but I wish it to be clearly understood, 
that let officer or soldier be proved guihy of crime, and 
he shall hang on the next tree." His inflexible firm- 
ness was known, and not a whisper was ever breathed 
of further irregularities. The brigade was soon after 
marched to Watboo; and after having beaten a party 
of horse, sent from Charleston for the purpose of sur- 
prising it, remained there till the evacuation of Charles- 
ton. While the British were preparing for embarka- 
tion, a party were sent to Lamprier's Point to procure 
w ater. A hint was given to Marion that this would 
afford a fair opportunity of inflicting a parting blow: to 
which he rei)lied — " My brigade is composed of citi- 
zens, enough of whose blood has already been shed ; 
if ordered to attack the enemy, I shall obey; but not 
another drop shall, with my consent, be lost, though it 
should procure me the greatest honours that, as a sol- 
dier, I could aspire to. Certain, as I am, that the 
enemy art^ at the point of departure, so far from offer- 
ing to molest, I would rather send a party to protect 
them." Had such been the humane policy of Ko- 
sciusko, many valuable lives would have been spared, 
and Wilmott and Moore might, at this day, have lived 
to add new honours to the annals of their country. 
Next to Henry Lee, perhaps altogether his equal, no 
man could be more expert than General Marion, in 
obtaining information of every movement of the enemy, 
and anticipating the events that might be expected 
from their activity and enterprise. He was, when 
necessary, secret as the grave ; appeared, generally, 
thoughtful, and was approached by his officers with 
reverential awe; but when out of reach of the enemy, 
and at liberty to give indidgence to the natural cheer- 
fulness of his disposition, he was familiar with his inti- 



MARION. 29 

mates, and the gentlpmeii of his family, even to play- 
ful i-ss. Ill [)rivate life he was clistin;2;uishpd by the 
strictest integrity in all his dealings. He was the exe- 
cutor of" several estates, and guardian of many children. 
Every duty was performed to perfection. No man lived 
more beloved — none ever died more universally and 
justly lamented. I shall close my eulo«;y with one 
am ("dote, which I consider highly characteristic of his 
unerring virtue. A friend, to whom he was attach- 
ed by the warmest affection, who had shared all his 
dangers, had transgressed the law by refusing to sub- 
mit to the regular process of justice, hoing, by the 
interposition of friends, and his high reputation, to 
escape censure. *' Deliver yourself," said Marion, 
" into the hands of the sheriff ; submit to be conduct- 
ed to gaol, and my hand and heart are yours. Refuse 
to do so, and trust, by the influence of friendship, to 
elude justice, and the line of separation is for ever 
drawn betwixt us." 



Among the companions of Moultrie, I will mention 
two other individuals, who afterwards were associated 
in arms with Marion, and, therefore, properly noticed 
in this place. ^ 

y 

COLONEL PETER HORRY. 

This officer was a descendant of one of the many 
protestant families who removed to Carolina from 
France, after the revocation of the edict of Nantz. 
He early took up arms in defence of his country ; 
and through all the trials of peril and privation, ex- 
perienced by Marion's brigade, gave ample proof of 



g0 HORRY. 

his strict integrity and undaunted courage. The fame 
which he acquired, as one of the band of heroes who 
defended the post at Sullivan's Island, was never tar- 
nished. For, although in a moment of despondency 
he once said to his general—" I fear our happy days 
are all gone by ;" it was not the consequences that 
might accrue to himself, but the miseries apprehended 
for his country, that caused the exclamation ; for never 
were his principles shaken; never, even for a moment, 
did the thought of submission enter his bosom. No 
man more eagerly sought the foe ; none braved danger 
with greater intrepidity, or more stremiously endea- 
voured to sustain the military reputation of his country. 
A ludicrous story is told of him, that, though probably 
varied in the narration, has its foundation in truth. 
Colonel Horry was once ordered to wait the approach 
•of a British detachment in ambuscade ; a service he 
performed with such skill, that he had them com- 
pletely within his power; when, from a dreadful 
impediment in his speech, by which he was afBicted, 
he could not articulate the word — "^re." In vain he 
made the attempt — it was,j?, fi, fi^ Ji — but he could 
get no further. At length, irritated almost to madness, 
he exclaimed — " Skooi, damn you — shoot — you know 
very well what I would say — shoot, shoot, and be 
damn'd to you ! ' He was present in every engagement 
of consequence, and on all occasions increased his 
reputation. At Quinby, Colonel Baxter, a gallant 
soldier, possessed of great coolness, and still greater 
^imi)licity of character, calling out, " I am wounded, 
■colonel !" Horry replied — " Think no more of it, 
Baxter, but stand to your post." " But, I can't stand, 
colonel — I am wounded a second time I" " Then 
lie down, Baxter, but quit not your post." " Colonel," 
(cried the wounded man) " they have shot me again, 
and if I remain any longer here, I shall be shot to 



HORRY. 51 

pieces." " Be it so, Baxter, bat stir not." He 
obeyed the order, and actually received a fourth wound 
before the engagement ended. 



COLONEL MAYHAM. 

If Colonel Mayhain had never rendered any other 
service in the field, than the judicious invention of the 
tower, to facilitate the reduction of the posts held by 
the British, and afterwards distinguished by his name, 
he would, as a soldier, have been entitled to dis- 
tinction. But, the fact is, that in no situation did he 
ever fail to increase his military fame. Expert in 
stratagem, he was equally alert in enterprise ; and in 
hardy daring, second to no officer in the service. By 
the construction of his tower, the British post at 
Wright's Bluff, which, from its elevated situation, and 
the want of cannon, had been deemed impregnable, 
was so completely overtopped, and the American 
riflemen thereby enabled to fire with such deadly 
effect, that the besieged dared not show themselves, 
and were compelled to capitulate and make an imme- 
diate surrender. Lee saw the advantage accruing 
from it, and by a similar construction, obtained a 
superiority over Browne at Augusta, whose activity and 
resolution, had baffled every previous attempt to injure 
him. Distinguished throughout the whole of-Marion's 
campaigns, by his zeal and activity, it was the good 
fortune of Colonel Mayham, to close his military 
career by a partisan stroke, greatly to the discomfiture 
of the enemy, attacking, with invincible imi)eti!osity, 
a detachment at Monk's Corner, within view of their 
main army, and carrying off eighty prisoners, without 
the smallest loss. 



ft 



PARTISxiiN COMMANDERS OF MILITIA. 



GENERAL SUMTER. 

Ix\ relatiiij^ the military acquirements of Sumter, I 
should feelingly lament the disasters attendin;^ his early 
career, had he not, like Antaeus, gathered streni^th 
from misfortune, and arose after every fall, with reno- 
vated powers of action. In the school of adversity, he 
learnt circumspection and was more than once, com- 
pelled to fi^ht under the greatest disadvantages. He 
became, ultimately, so guarded in his attention to the 
security of his camp, and so happy in the choice of his 
positions, that every attempt to injure him, on the part 
of the enemy, proved abortive, whilst the enterprizes 
which he conducted, were, for the most part, produc- 
tive of the most brilliant success. No man was more 
indefatigable in his efforts to obtain victory ; none 
more ready, by the generous exposure of his person, 
and the anitnating example of intrei)idity, to deserve 
it. His attacks were iin|>etuous, and generally irre- 
sistible. He was far less inclined to plan, than to 
execute; and on many occasions, by an approach to 
rashness, accomplished what prudence would have 
forbidden him to attempt. It was his supreme good 
fortune, to give the first check to the British successes 
in South Carolina, after the fall of Charleston, by 
completely routing on the 12th of July, 1780, at VVil- 



SUMTER. d& 

iiams' plantation, a maraudini^ detachment of their 
army, commanded by Cai)tain Huck, a miscreant, 
who, by his cruelty and profanity, appeared, equally, 
the enemy of God and man. During his predatory 
excursions, he had perpetrated every species of bar- 
barity, and excited the resentments of the inhabitants, 
still more by his words, than by his actions. With 
him, the exclamation was common — " God Almighty 
has turned rebel ; but, had the Americans twenty 
Gods, instead of one on their side, they should all 
he conquered." 

General Sumter's attacks upon the posts of Rocky 
Mount and Hanging Rock, where, in tlie first instance, 
]]e was completely successful, did him great credit ; 
and could he have restrained the insubordination cha- 
racteristic of irregular troops, and destroyed their 
avidity for plunder and liquor, in both instances, his 
victory must have been complete, fie, shortly after, 
captured a convoy of stores passing from Ninety-Six 
to Camden ; but, most unfortunately, encamping 
within striking distance of the enemy, (now at liberty, 
by the complete defeat of Gates, to send forth large 
detachments,) he was attacked by Tarleton, when un- 
prepared for resistance, and routed, with the loss of 
many men, and all the prisoners and valuable stores 
that had recently fallen into his hands. He was next 
attacked near Broad River by Wemyss, who, calcu- 
lating on his former inattention to the security of hi^ 
camp, hoped to surprise him. In his expectati'^ 
however, he was severely disappointed ; his troc, 
were repulsed, and himself wounded and taken, li 
has often been said, and universally believed, that in 
a pocket-book found on him, was not only an accurate 
list of the houses he had burnt, but of those also that 
he intended to destroy. Lord Cornwallis, writing im- 
mediately after this to Colonel Tarleton, to give energy 
to pursuit, says — *' I shall be glad to hear that Sumter 

5 ^ 



31 



SUMTEIt. 



is ill no condition to give us further trouble— he cer- 
tniuly has been our greatest plague in this country." 

From a man of Lord Cornwallis' enterprise, such 
praise was the highest encomium. Tarh^.ton now 
rapidly advanced, anxious to strike a blow that would 
annihilate him, before he could cross the Tiger River; 
and, stimulated by the impetuosity of his temper, 
attacked his strong position on Blackstock-Hill, with 
such imprudence, that, after severe loss, both of offi- 
cers and men, he was compelled to quit the field, 
leaving his wounded to the mercy of his conqueror. 
To the credit of Sumter, his attention and humanity 
to them, has always been acknowledged. To the 
misfortune of Carolina, a severe wound received in 
the action, put a stop, for a considerable time, to his 
brilliant career ; but, he was no sooner able to take 
the iield, than he again appeared as an active partisan, 
breaking up the British posts in the lower country. 
On one occasion. Lieutenant Colonel Hampton, com- 
manding under him, dispersed a large body of tories 
near Dorchester. Placed at the head of the light 
troops, both regulars and militia, Sumter next com- 
pelled Lieutenant Colonel Coats to destroy his stores 
at Monk's Corner, and abandon the position, and 
w^ould have made the entire 19th regiment, com- 
manded by him, prisoners, had he not, by the rapidity 
of his flight, passed the bridge at Quinby, and by 
throwing off the i)lank, prevented pursuit, till he had 
established himself in a strong position, from wiiich, 
the want of artillery rendered it impossible to dislodge 
him. Important services were again performed by 
him at Eutaw. After which, the enemy retiring 
within their lines, seldom ventured beyond the gates 
of Charleston. 



PICKENS. 35 



GENERAL PICKENS. 

A truer patriot, nor more intrepid soldier than 
General Pickens, never trod the soil of liberty ; and 
there are few characters of our Revolution to whom 
Carolina is more highly indebted. At the commence- 
ment of the war, great diversity of opinion existed 
among the inhabitants of the interior country, not 
only with regard to the practicability, but propriety 
also, of resisting the power of Britain. Attachment 
to former prf^judices, and a belief of the perfection of 
the ancient system, were strong ; and the spirit of op- 
position, encouraged by the new government, regarded 
if not unjustifiable, at least, rash and inconsiderate, 
and leading to consequences the most disastrous to the 
peace and happiness of the community. The exer- 
tions of Colonel Pickens, to counteract those fallacious 
principles, and to induce the inhabitants of his district 
to adopt opinions similar to those which animated the 
bosoms of every true friend to his country, were inde- 
fatigable. He was constantly on the alert ; vigilance, 
indeed, became indispensible ; for, although the tories 
would oftentimes show a disposition to temporize, yet 
it was evident from their murmurings, and secret 
caballing, that they only waited a favourable oppor- 
tunity to declare their sentiments, and to engage in 
open and decided hostility. No sooner, therefore, did 
the British appear in force in the south, than their 
smothered resentments burst into flame. Several hun- 
dreds of them embodied, and committing every spe- 
cies of depredation on their route, marched forward to 
join the royal army in Georgia. Colonel Pickens, 
apprized of their movements, and irritated by their 
rapacity, pursued them with rapid steps, and over- 
taking them at Kettle Creek, atracked them so vigo- 
rously, that in less than an hour, forty of their number, 



^ PICKENS. 

and among them their leader, Boyd, were killed, and 
ihr rest so rompietely dispersed, as to leave no appre- 
hension of any further trouble. 

When Charleston fell, and the victorious Britons 
spreading: themselves over the country, advanced into the 
interior, the revived resentments of the royalists, com- 
pelled Colonel Pickens, and the steady adherents of the 
cause of freedom, to abandon their habitations and coun- 
try, and seek for refuge in North Carolina. So soon, 
however, ns General Greene had taken command of the 
army, and ordered General Morgan to enter the western 
division of the state, to check the aggressions of the 
enemy, and to revive the drooping spirits of the whig in- 
habitants. Colonel Pickens was found the most active 
among his associates, seconding his enterprizes, and by 
gentleness and conciliation, attaching new adherents to 
the cause. Of his intrepid conduct at the battle of 
the Cowpens, it is scarcely necessary to speak. It is a 
Well known fact, that he not only prevailed upon his 
riflemen to retain their fire till it could be given with 
deadly effect, but when broken and compelled to re- 
treat, tliat he rallied them ; and what had never before 
been effected with militia, brought them a second time 
to meet their enemy, and by continued exertion, to 
accomplish their final surrender. 

Ordered by General Greene, after his retreat into 
Virginia, to recross the Dan, and, in conjunction with 
Lee, to check the spirit of revolt which had manifested 
itself in many parts of North Carolina, he aided, effec- 
tually, the infliction of that salutary punishment which 
rendered abortive every future effort of Lord Corn- 
wallis to bring recruits to he royal standard. 

When the British were subsequently compelled to 
retreat to Wilmington, and General Greene resolved to 
rettn*n to South Carolina, Pickens, now a brigadier, 
was directed to precede him, and to collect the militia 
of his brigade, and particularly to prevent supplies 



PICKENS. SI 

from being thrown into the garrisons of Ninety-Six, and 
Augusta. This service was effectually performed, and 
being joined by Lee, the combined force sat down 
before Augusta. Greater skill in defence, nor more 
intrepid resistance, was never shown than by Colonel 
Browne, which cannot but enhance the glory of the com- 
manders who compelled him to surrender. At the bat- 
tle of Eutaw, where he was wounded, he acquired 
additional glory; and finally, completed his military 
achievements, by conducting an expedition, in 1782, 
against the Cherokee nation with such decided effect, 
that, with the utmost humility, they solicited peace, 
and promised never again to rise in opposition to our 
government. 



GENERAL DAVIE. 

At the commencement of the Revolutionary War 
General Davie was a student at Princeton College, 
and feeling a strong desire to encounter the dangers of 
the field, marched as sergeant of a company of his 
associates, who had embodied themselves contrary to 
the wishes of their tutors, to join a detachment of the 
army stationed at Elizabethtown. How long these 
patriotic enthusiasts remained together is uncertain ; 
but becoming disgusted more with the fatigues than 
the dangers of service, they justified the prognostic of 
Dr. Witherspoon, and gradually returned to their 
studies. When they first left the college the faculty 
spoke of expulsion, and other punishments, as the 
merited reward of disobedience. Dr. Witherspoon 
simply said, — "Let them alone; opposition to their 
purposes will only increase their desire to adhere to 



38 



DAVIE. 



them ; exposure to the fatigues of service will effect all 
that you desire ; it will not be long before we have 
them all back again." Young Davie, and one other 
student named Brown, remained with the army. Kis 
taste for a military life was now confirmed ; and we 
find him at the battle of Stono, as Brigade Major of 
cavalry, covering the retreat of Lincoln's army, and 
immediately afterwards an inmate of the hospital, se- 
verely wounded. He has often mentioned to a friend, 
an occurrence that plainly shows, how deplorable the 
situation of the continental army must have been with 
respect to the essential comforts which were never want- 
ing to tlie British. Thrown into a stupor by the loss 
of blood, and the agony of his wound, the poor young 
soldier, on the recovery of his senses, found that his 
shirt had been stripped from his back to make ban- 
dages for the wounded who surrounded him, and 
having no change to replace it, acknowledged that, for 
a time, he felt all the pains of the most perfect despon- 
-denc3\ At the period of Gates' defeat his zeal and 
activity had advanced him to the command of a 
legionary corjis of militia. He was on detachment at 
the moment of defeat, but hastening forward as soon 
as he was informed of it, he was essentially service- 
able, not only in preventing pursuit, but in recapturing 
several wagons, one of which, most fortunately, con- 
tained the hospital medicine chest. Convinced that 
the enemy would anxiously seek and strike at Sumter, 
he, with laudable zeal, immediately despatched a con- 
fidential soldier with int'^lligence of the disaster, and 
then reluctantly retired. He had previously, under the 
command of Sumter, fought both at Hanging Rock 
and Rocky Mount. At the first he cut off three com- 
panies of Bryan's regiment, took sixty horses and one 
Innidred rifles and muskets ; at the last, by a well 
directed charge, made great havoc among the loyalists, 
-and had not some liquor, found in the enemy's camp, 



DAVIE. 59 

been too attractive^ would have enjoyed a complete vic- 
tory; but intoxication destroyed subordination, and 
every advantage was lost. After the battle of Camden 
his force, consisting of about two hundred men, was 
actively employed in repelling predatory excursions, in 
harassing the enemy, and cutting off their supplies. 
Provisions were scarce in the British camp, and Lord 
Cornwallis was compelled to send out large detach- 
ments to procure them. One of these, stationed at 
Wahab's plantation, was struck at by Davie, and with 
comi)lete success. Sixty of the enemy were left on the 
ground; ninety-six horses, with their equipments, and 
one hundred and twenty stand of arms, were taken, 
with the loss of but one man. Being now closely 
pressed, he retired to Charlotte, and joined by Majpr 
Grahame, made a stand that entitles him to the most 
exalted praise. Twice he repulsed the British legion, 
with considerable slaughter, and it was not till his 
flank was gained, and a third charge made under the 
influence of an animating address by Lord Cornwallis 
himself, that he relinquished his post, retiring without 
loss to Salisbury. General Davie was not only distin- 
guished as an intelligent, but as an intrepid soldier. 
His delight was to lead a charge ; and possessing great 
bodily strength, united with uncommon activity, is said 
to have overcome more men, in i)ersonal conflict, than 
any individual in the service. His knowledge of the 
country, and of its resources, induced General Greene, 
when pressed by the greatest diiiiculties, to intrust him 
with the charge of the quarter master general's depart- 
ment. He afterwards employed him as a negotiator with 
the legislature of North Carolina for supplies of men, the 
more effectually to resist the enemy, whose strength 
had increased by the arrival of three regiments from 
Ireland. In both these capacities he acquitted himself 
with consummate ability, and to the entire satisfaction 
of his general. 



46 



DAVIE. 



I do not think that I could find a bettter opportunrty, 
than in this place, to point out the advantages of disci- 
pline. It may be remembered, that at the batrle of 
Guilford, two North Carolina battalions of militia, ad- 
vantageously posted behind a rail fence, were assured 
by General Greene, that if they would only preserve 
their station long enough to give their enemy two fires, 
they should obtain his free permission to retire from 
the field. They readily promised obedience, but the 
formidable whiskered Hessians, and athletic Guards, 
advancing with rapid motion, their courage forsook 
them, and they retired without firing a shot. As a. 
punishment for their scandalous misconduct, they were, 
in compliance with the requisition made by General 
Greene, through the medium of Davie, placed under 
continental officers, and sentenced to serve for eighteen 
months in the ranks. The regularity of discipline soon 
taught them self-confidence ; they actually panted for 
renown, and behaved with such gallantry at Eutaw, 
that of three hundred of their number that entered into 
the action, one hundred and ninety remained, at its 
conclusion, either killed or wounded on the field. 

I had written this short sketch of the character and 
achievements (5f General Davie, when a packet was 
delivered to me from a friend in the interior country, 
above all other men qualified, from strict intimacy and 
just admiration of his talents and virtues, to furnish me 
with the information respecting him, that I required. 
To my readers I am confident I cannot offer too many 
particulars relative to a patriot who lived so much be- 
loved — who died so universally lamented. And it 
w^ould be an injustice to the friend, to whose commu-. 
nication I feel myself in the highest degree indebted, 
to make the communication in any other than his own 
words. 



DAVIE. 41 

" At the bar, Colonel Davie soon rose to great emi- 
nence ; and indeed, in a few years, became one of its 
principal leaders and ornaments. He was possessed 
of great sagacity, profound knowledge, and masculine 
eloquence. His manners were conciliatory, but im- 
posing and even commanding. The late Alfred Moore, 
who was afterwards one of the Judges of the Supreme 
Court of the United States, and who was a very able 
lawyer, as well as an excellent man, was the intimate 
friend of Colonel Davie, and his rival, in their honour- 
able career at the bar. Their practice and their 
labours were immense, and both made independent- 
fortunes. 

*' Colonel Davie was appointed by the Legislature 
of North Carolina, to represent that respectable state 
in the Convention, called at Philadelphia, in the year 
1787, to deliberate on the national en)barrassments, 
and to form a national government, in order to correct 
the evils of a very loose confederation, and of a mise- 
rably week and inetiicient government. 

" Being, at that time, a young man, he did not take 
a prominent part in the discussion which resulted in 
the formation of that constitution, which has been so 
severely tested, and found to be so admirably adapted 
to the government of our country. But, he there 
learnt the true foundations on which the government 
was laid, and the solid arguments in su|)port of it- 

"His name does not appear to that great instru- 
ment; the illness of his family having called him home 
belbre the labours of the Convention were concluded. 
But, when the constitution was submitted to the judg- 
ment of the State Convention in North Carolina, for 
adoption, he stood iorth its most able champion, and 
its most ardent supporter. 

" The University of North Carolina, is mainly in- 
debted to his exertions, and to his labours, for its 
establishment, and for the assignment of permanent 

6 



40 DAVIE. 

landed property for its support. Colonel Davie was 
extremely anxious upon this subject, and exerted the 
utmost powers of his persuasive and commanding 
eloquence, to ensure success. He was deeply sensible 
of the extreme importance of extending, as widely as 
possible, the advantages of liberal education, that 
there might be a perpetual succession of enlightened 
and liberal men, qualified to administer the afl'airs of 
this great and increasing people with wisdom and 
dignity. He considered the public liberty insecure, 
and liable to be disturbed by perpetual factions, unless 
education be widely diffused. 

" Colonel Davie was now appointed a Major Genera! 
in the militia of North Carolina ; and some time after, 
in the 5^ear 1799, was elected Governor of that State; 
the duties of which station, he performed with his 
accustomed firmness and wisdom. He was not, how- 
ever, permitted to remain long in that station. His 
country had higher claims on his talents and services. 

" The venerable Mr. Adams, then President of the 
United States, anxious to make one more effort to put 
an end to the differences which subsisted between this 
country and France, associated General Davie with 
Mr. Ellsworth and Mr. Murray, as his Ambassadors in 
a mission to France, for that purpose. These gentle- 
men, on their arrival in France, found the tyrannical 
and corrupt government of the Directory, which had 
behaved so haughtily to General Pinckney and his 
colleagues, overturned by Buonaparte; who, though 
exercising more despotic powers than his predecessors, 
was, at that time, desirous to conciliate the United 
States. Commissioners were appointed to discuss 
the subjects of dispute, and their deliberations ended 
in a convention, which healed the breach, and saved 
the United States from being dragged into the vortex 
of European quarrels. 



DAVIE. 43 

'• General Davie always represented to his friends, 
Joseph Buonaparte, the ex-king of Naples and of 
Spain, then a minister in France, (now resident in the 
United States) as the person who, of all others con- 
nected with the French government, behaved most 
uniformly with liberality, disinterestedness and respect 
to the American commissioners. That gentleman, 
accordingly, always stood high in his esteem. Ma- 
dame de Stael tendered civilities to the Commissioners, 
which it was deemed expedient to decline, that lady 
being then in disgrace with Buonaparte. 

*' It was impossible, for a man of General Davie's 
profound observation, to be in France, and to witness, 
for a considerable time, the workings of powerful 
minds in that agitated country, then just emerging 
from the most ferocious and bloody despotism of the 
mob, and tending to a more regular despotism of a 
single ruler, less bloody, but not less oppressive, with- 
out closely examining the state of public feeling, and 
acquiring an intimate knowledge of many of the prin- 
cipal actors in those eventful scenes. Of the history, 
character, and political connexions of many of those 
actors, he condensed the information he had collected, 
into short sketches, which were afterwards preserved 
and brought to this country. He saw and deplored, 
that the French Revolution could not terminate in the 
establishment of rational liberty and regulated autho- 
rity ; efficient only to all useful purposes, but powerless 
for all mischief. He saw, that each succeeding fac- 
tion which acquired the supreme power, exercised it 
despotically, and with no other view, than to establish 
its own authority permanently, and without any regard 
to the rights of the citizen, the legitimate end of all 
government. 

*' Upon this subject, his conversation was always 
deeply interesting ; and he endeavoured to impress 



44 DAVIE. 

upon all Americans, but chiefly upon young men of 
ardent minds, and promising talents, tlie vast impor- 
tance of moderation and toleration in republican gov- 
ernments ; without which, they can scarcely hoi)e to 
escape the snares of ambitious demagogues, and the 
ruin of violent dissentions. 

" General Davie contemplated thecharacter of Bou- 
naparte with great attention. He saw him often, and 
conversed with him freely. He considered him a man 
of first rate talents as a warrior, and of great reach as 
a statesman. But he regarded him also, as a man of 
unbounded ambition, restrained by no principles human 
or divine. On one occasion, after an interesting con- 
versation, Bounaparte concluded by saying, that he 
considered power as the only foundation of right ; 
*' Enfiu Monsieur la force est droit.'^^ General Davie's 
opinion of him was afterwards verified by his assump- 
tion of imperial and despotic power. 

*' Soon after his return to America General Davie lost 
his wife, a lady of lofty mind and exemplary virtues, 
to whom he was greatly attached : and not long after 
he took the resolution to retire from public life, and to 
become a farmer on his own line estate at Tivoli, 
beautifully situated on the Catawba river, in Chester 
District, South Carolina. As a farmer he was active 
and intelligent, and endeavoured to improve the system 
of aij;riculture by the use of manures, rotation of crops, 
and rest to the land. He deplored the slovenly and 
wasteful system of farming in use throughout the 
Southern States, which exhausts the soil without re- 
turning any thing to it. On the formation of an Agri- 
cultural Society at Cohmibia, he was appointed the 
Prt^sident, and delivered a discourse, which for purity 
of style, sound observation, and clear exposition of the 
proper course of agriculture for this country, has never 



DAVIE. 45 

been excelled. It was admired equally by the scholar 
and the farmer.* 

" Some years after General Davie's retreat to his 
farm, the belligerent governments of France and Eng- 
land, which had each endeavoured to draw our nation 
into their quarrel as a party, multiplied their aggres- 
sions on the commerce of the United States to such an 
extent, as furnished just cause of war against both ; and 
it was even st^iously proposed in Congress to declare 
war against both. But as that would have been an 
unwise exposure of the commerce of the country to the 
rapacity of both nations, it was abandoned; not, how- 
ever, without strong declarations that the conduct of 
France and England gave us the right to choose our 
enemy. That choice was made, and it fell upon Great 
Britain, equally unjust with France in her conduct to 
our commerce, and coming more in collision with the 
personal feelings of American citizens, by her practice 
of impressing them into her naval service. In the 
formation of the army necessary for the defence of the 
country, on this emergency, the government, putting 
aside party distinctions, selected General Davie as one 
of the officers most fit to be entrusted with a high com- 
mand. This was flattering to his military pride, and 
he would have been delighted to have rendered service 
to his country, in this his favourite profession. For 
though not entirely satisfied with all the measures of 
the administration, he felt that, as a citizen, he was 
bound to defend the country whenever it was in 
daniier, however brought on it. But his increas- 
ing infirmities admonished him not to assume duties 
beyond his strength, which might prejudice the ser- 
vice, instead of promoting it. The wounds received 
in the Revolutionary War, and the rheumatism which, 

* The address is nrinted in the 1st volume of the American Farmer, for the 
year 1819, pages 217—225. 



46 i^A^^E. 

from long exposure during his service, became fixed on 
his constitution, rendered him incapable of those active 
exertions which his high sense of duty would have 
exacted from him as a commander. He, therefore, 
declined the honour offered him after a good deal of 
hesitation. But it is believed that he had several com- 
munications with the government upon subjects con- 
nected with the organization of the army, as to which 
his opinion was consulted ; and the results of his expe- 
rience and military knowledge were freely commu- 
nicated. 

" General Davie continued to reside at his beautiful 
seat, on the banks of the Catawba, to which travellers 
and visitors were constantly attracted by his open hos- 
pitality, his dignified manners, and elevated character. 
Occasionally he made excursions to the Warm Springs, 
in Buncombe County, North Carolina, for relief from 
the harassing rheumatism, which afHictt'd and wasted 
him. On those visits he was always greatly admired 
by the intelligent strangers who visited that place of 
resort from all the Southern and South-western States. 
The affability of his deportment gave easy access to 
all. But no person approached him, however distin- 
guished by his talents or character, who did not spee- 
dily feel that he was in the presence of a very superior 
man. His great and varied information, combined 
with his profound knowledge of men and things, made 
him the most interesting of companions. The ignorant 
and the learned, the weak and the wise, were all in- 
structed and delighted with his conversation, which 
had an irresistible charm for all. Although no man 
spoke more plainly his opinions and sentiments on pro- 
per occasions, he had the art of never giving offence. 
For, like the immortal Washington, " he was always 
covered with the mantle of discretion;" a happy ex- 
pression used by the late Mr. Ralph Izard, formerly a 
Senator in Congress from this state, and who served 



DAVIE. 47 

six years during President Washington's administra- 
tion, knew him perfectly, and venerated him next to 
the Deity. 

" At home, and in his own neighbourhood, General 
Davie was revered with the highest filial piety. He 
was the friend of the distressed, the safe counsellor of 
the embarrassed, and the peace maker of all. His 
own character, free from every spot or stain, gave a 
power to his interpositions, which was irresistible. 

*' General Davie had a deep, and even an awful 
sense of God and his Providence ; and was attached to 
the principles and doctrines of Christianit3^ But, he 
had not attached himself, as an avowed member to any 
particular sect. He thought they generally dogma- 
tized too much, and shut the door of Christian charity 
too closely. He devised a proper site on his estate for 
the erection of a place of worship, to be erected by 
any Christian Society, which should choose to put up 
a suitable building thereon. 

" He was a tall man, of fine proportions ; his figure 
erect and commanding ; his countenance possessing 
great expression ; and his voice full and energetic. 
Indeed, his whole appearance struck the beholder at 
once, as indicating no ordinary man ; and the reality 
exceeded the appearance. 

*' Such was the man who has been taken from his 
afflicted family, his friends, and his country. He met 
death with the firmness of a soldier, and of a man 
conscious of a life well spent. His memory is che- 
rished by his family and friends, with the most enthu- 
siastic attachment. The good he did survives him ; 
and he has left a noble example to the youth of his 
country, to encourage and to stimulate them in the 
honourable career of virtue and of exertion. May it 
be appreciated and followed." 



48 BARNWELL. 



BARNWELL. 

No officer in the service, more resolved from prin- 
ciple, more anxious from patriotic entliusiasm. ste|»[)ed 
forward to encounter all the dangers and difficulties of 
the field, while the freedom of his country was at 
stake, than General Barnwell. 

At the commencement of the war, he commanded a 
company in tiie first Continental regiment of South 
Carolina ; but, garrison and camp duty being less con- 
genial to his disi)osition than i)artisan enterprise, he 
speedily quitted the regular, and received promotion in 
the militia service, as a Major of cavalry. 

I have not been able to ascertain with accuracy, the 
time, or the particidars of an expedition, conducted 
by him at a very early period of the contest ; but con- 
fidently assert, that a large and acceptable supply of 
powder was captured by him, and safely conveyed to 
the public stores. 

At the battle of Port-Royal Island, he commanded, 
under the orders of General Moultrie, a small body of 
horse, and by throwing himself, during the engage- 
ment, into the rear of the enemy, greatly contributed 
to their defeat ; taking many prisoners, and striking 
such a panic, that sauve qui pent became the general 
pass-word among the disorderly ranks, and the reco- 
very of their boats the universal aim. 

His conduct, during the invasion of Provost, enti- 
tles him to the highest honour. In watching the 
movements of the enemy, i)rocuring intelligence, cut- 
ting off stragglers, and detached parties from the army, 
he was pre-eminently useful. 

While Colonel Laurens, with a trifling command^ 
was disputing the pass at Coosawhatehie, against the 
entire British army, Major Barnwell, having no field 



BARNWELL. 

for action, remained at the head of the causeway that 
led to it ; but, rendered him essential service, by send- 
ing to his aid, two volunteers of his corps, Mr. John 
Cuthbert, (since, General Cuthbert,) and Charles 
Freer, (at a subsequent period a Captain in the service) 
whose activity, in conveying his orders, and fearless 
exposure of their persons, gave animation to the ex- 
ertions of a militia force, that had never before 
encountered an enemy. Soon as Laurens was ordered 
to retire. Major Barnwell, with alacrity, joined the 
army under General Moultrie, at Tulafinny-Hill, 
persuaded that so commanding a situation might in- 
sure effectual resistance ; or, in the event of discom- 
fiture, cause such a check to be given to the progress 
of the invaders, as to prevent their nearer approach to 
the capital. He considered retreat, as pregnant with 
the most disastrous consequences ; and the loss of a 
battle, far less injurious, than the abandonment of the 
country. The event justified his opinion ; for, by the 
time that the retiring army had crossed the Saltketcher 
River, the southern militia had dispersed almost 
to a man. The terror excited by the Indians, who 
wore their war dresses, and wantonly displayed the 
instruments of torture, with which they were accus- 
tomed to aggravate the sufl^erings of their prisoners, 
created the most appalling dismay. Whigs, of un- 
questionable patriotism, who would cheerfully have 
risked their lives in action, and used their utmost 
energies to have repelled the enemy, soon as retreat 
was commanded, sought their homes, choosing rather 
to perish with their families, or slselter them from dan- 
ger by submission, than leave them exposed to the 
depredations of a ruffian banditti, led by M'Girth, 
and of savages, whose cherished object was to plun- 
der, and destroy. It w^as at this disastrous period 
that many individuals, surprised in their habitations, 
and bewildered by their fears, sought and obtained 

7 



50 BARNWELL. 

British protections. Fatal, indeed, was their derelic- 
tion of duty, since left by the speedy and preci|.itate 
retreat of the invading army, to be reproached by 
their exasperated countrymen, for their weakness, and 
subjected to penalties very strongly indicating their 
abhorrence of it.* 

It was then, that Major Barnwell, rising in his 
place on the floor of the Legislature, moved — " That 
to obliten:te all unpleasant recollections, an act of am- 
nesty for all w ho had transgressed, should be imme- 
diately passed." His proposition met with pointed, 
and even harsh animadversion ; and Mr. Thomas 
Ferguson, a distinguished patriot, exclaimed — *' Had 
you not. Major Barnwell, recently shown by your 
activity in the field, your perfect devotion to the cause 
of your country, I should not hesitate to pronounce 
you a traitor." Similar invective was used by other 
members ; when, finding conciliatory measures too 
unpopular to meet success, he turned with composure 
to his opponents, and said — " The danger which 
drove the unfortunates, in whose behalf I would plead 
for mercy, has never been brought to your own doors. 
Remember, that when it does reach you, that you 
swerve not from duty, nor forget the opinions you now 
support. From you^ gentlemen, 1 shall, on every fu- 

* I know an instance of a gentleman of exemplary firmness of character, 
who, being upbraided for a departure from principle, because he had sought 
his home to share the fate of his family; said, " I would never have quitted 
the army, had the apprehension been removed from my mind, of the horrors 
•which my wife and children were likely to experience from the ferocity of 
the savages. As the war advances, the opportunity may still be mine, to 
show my perfect devotion to my country." His conduct at the siege of 
Charleston, was exemplary. He was an inmate of the prison ships, and one 
of the inflexible patriots, who, preferring death to submission, requested 
Gen ral Greene, without regard to their situation, to avenge the death of 
Colonel Hayne. The promises and threats of the enemy, were equally held 
in contempt; and he remained unshaken in his principles, to the conclusion 
of the war. 



BARNWELL. 51 

ture occasion, look for unshaken firmness, and exem- 
plary intrepiHity." When, in after times, he found in 
the list of men soliciting British favour, the names of 
several who had affected to question his sincerity, it 
is not to be wondered at, that he gave indulgence to 
his resentments ; and that he never failed, as often as 
they presented petitions to the Legislature, to have 
the penalties imposed on their misconduct, remitted, 
and memory of their political errors forgotten, to op- 
pose them with the expression of the most marked 
indignation. I have always considered it a misfortime 
to this country, that his strictness in command, and 
unremitted efforts to render the militia as submissive 
to discipline as regular soldiers, rendered him so un- 
popular in his brigade, when advanced to the com- 
mand of the Southern Divisionof the State, as to induce 
him, rather than give an excuse for non-performance 
of duty, to retire from active service. It is but too 
true, that great irregularities had been tolerated, by 
commanders more disposed to temporize than offend, 
and that the honour of the country required that they 
should be effectually checked. The resources of the 
state, for the maintenance of the army, were wan- 
tonly wasted, and the rights of property violated with 
impunity. A destructiv^e system beyond question ; but 
the curb which he wished to impose on licentiousness, 
was too suddenly applied, and too imperious. By the 
failure of the attempt, the service lost an officer of 
experience, whose courage, often tested in the field, 
gave invariably increase to his reputation, and the 
example of steady integrity and perseverence, that, 
imitated, could only have added to the respectability of 
the Republican character. But, though stern his re- 
sentments, against all who, regardless of their plighted 
faith to their country, sought favour with the British, 
and accepted their protection — to such as openly es- 
poused their cause at the commencement of hostilities. 



52 BARNWELL. 

he betrayed no symptom of inveteracy ; more espe- 
cially, if from a conviction of error, they expressed a 
desire to join and support the standard of their country. 
A very singular occurrence w^ill amply prove this. 
Two brothers had embraced opposite opinions. The 
one was a decided Royalist — the other a professed 
Whig. In the eventful occurrences which attended 
the progress of the war, the first became a British 
Commissary, and in the hour of success, pressed six 
barrels of rice from his brother's plantation ; who, 
yielding to the storm, and convinced that the resources 
of America w^ere inadequate to effectual resistance, 
had become a strenuous admirer of kingly govern- 
ment. The successes of Greene, however, very 
speedily cheeked his enthusiasm ; and taking the 
benefit of Governor Matthews' tender of pardon, he 
was again enrolled in the ranks of our armies. The 
Commissary, who had sufficiently witnessed the irre- 
gularities of the British, and frequent desertion of 
their adherents, about the same period made a confes- 
sion of error, and was, by General Barnwell, admitted 
to all the privileges of citizenship. Peace being shortly 
after restored: the Whig wrote to his brother, re- 
minding him of the impressed rice, and demanding 
payment for it, concluding with a threat, that in case 
of refusal, a suit would be immediately instituted for 
the recovery of the amount. General Barnwell's in- 
terposition was instantaniously solicited, to save from 
ruin. One suit decided against him, would be the 
prelude to many; and the Commissary easily per- 
ceived, that the force of political prejudice, would 
prove him, on all occasions, an oppressor. Fortu- 
nately, the General had been looking over the papers 
of Colonel Lechmere, who had been made a prisoner 
at Pocotaligo, when commanding the district for the 
British, and found among them, from the professor of 
chaste principles, a letter to this purport — " I am 



BARNWELL. 53 

solicitous, my dear Colonel, to show my zeal as a 
Loyalist — my devotion to the best of Kings. I am 
no soldier ; but, as a ma2;istrate, would ardently pro- 
mote the good cause. Put me, I beseech you, on the 
list of Justices of the Peace, for here, I most solemnly 
aver, that the extinction of rebellion, and restoration 
of his Majesty's happy government, is to me, as a re- 
surrection from the dead." " Send your brother a 
copy of this epistle," said General Barnwell, '' and 
assure him' from me, that the commencement of his 
threatened suit, shall be the signal to give it publicity." 
It is scarcely necessary to state, that the tranquillity 
of the Commissary was never again disturbed. To 
the liberality of General Barnwell, many officers who 
held commissions under the Ptoyal Government, were 
indebted for the support of their petitions, to become 
citizens of the United States. And from some of 
them, particularly Mr. George Roiipell, the penalties 
of banishment, and every disqualification removed, 
even witliout an application for relief. 

At the head of the list of voluntary martyrs, signing 
the requisition to General Greene, not to suffer any 
consideration relative to their safety to impede the ful- 
filment of his threat, to revenge the murder of Colonel 
Hayne, by retaliation on a British ofiicer of equal rank, 
will be found the names of John, Edivard and JRobert 
Barmvell, alike distinguished by the steadiness of their 
principles, and exemplary intrepidity during the most 
trying scenes of the war. The last, after receiving 
seventeen wounds, was h^ft as d'^ad on tlie fit^d. but 
sought for, and conveyed to a neighbouring plantation, 
recovered.* 

* The life of Mr. Robert Barnwell .was saved by the affectionate and assi- 
duous attention of his reietive, Miss IMaiy Anna Gibbes, (the sani.e who rescued 
from danger her infant cousin, Fenwick, as will hereafter be related) When 
considered by all around him beyond the reach of mortal aid, she steadily 
persisted to bathe and dress his wounds, till exhausted nature recovered its 
faculties, and gave animation to his apparently lifeJess corpse. 



54 BARNWELL. 

Turning his attention more particularly to literary 
pursuits, he appeared in the Legislative Councils of the 
State, and on the floor of Congress, with distinguished 
credit both to himself and his country. Nor will I 
neglect to mention the name of their nephew, William 
Elliott, who, though but a youth, after being severely 
wounded, was equally, with themselves, resolute to 
devote himself to his country, by signing the requisition 
to General Greene, so highly characteristic of patriotic 
enthusiasm. 



DISTINGUISHED CONTINENTAL OFFICERS. 



Having endeavoured, with strict observance of truth, to detail the 
services of Mouhrie, and briefly sketched the characters and 
achievements of the Partisan Commanders of Milhia, who attained 
the highest celebrity, I turn, with peculiar interest, to the Officers 
of the Continental Line, the most distinguished in the annals of the 
Southern War ; beginning with those, who, by their talents and in- 
trepidity, so happily seconded the enterprise, and indefatigable 
exertions of Greene, till the expulsion of enemy gave a stamp of 
excellence to his military character, that must for ever excite the 
applause and admiration of posterity. 

ISAAC HUGER. 

Among the patriots of South Carolina, the Hugers 
were highly distinguished. Daniel was long a mem- 
ber of Congress. John, an able and industrious assist- 
ant in the state councils. Francis was numbered 
among the brave defenders of the pass at Sullivan's 
Island, when assailed by the British fleet. Benjaminy 
a soldier of the highest promise, closed a life of honour 
on the field, falling before the lines of Charleston, 
during the invasion of Provost. Isaac, of whom I 
would more particularly speak, as a bold and enter- 
prising commander, was pre-eminently distinguished. 
The cloud of misfortune did, it must be acknowledged, 
(at one period obscure his fame; the disastrous sur- 
prise of Monk's Corner was highly injurious to his 



56 HUGER. 

military reputation. But when it is recollected how 
extremely difficult the task to keep alive the vigilance 
essential to security, amonji? troops newly initiated in 
military service, and how frequently the most judicious 
arrangements of the commanders of detachments are 
thwarted by the negligence of the patrols and videttes, 
whose unremitted attention alone counteract the ener- 
gies of an enterprising enemy, we cannot too harshly 
blame an officer for a single disaster, who, taught by' 
misfortune, never a second time experienced discom- 
fiture; and who, in every subsequent rencounter with 
the British army, by his zeal and intrepidity, acquired 
increase of reputation. 

At the commencement of the war General Fluger 
was commissioned as Lieutenant Colonel of the 1st 
Continental Regiment, and shortly after promoted to 
the command of the 5th. There wasnobattle of con- 
sequence fought in which he was not engaged, display- 
ing, on every occasion, great coolness, and invincible 
resolution. How highly he possessed the confidence 
of General Greene, is manifested by the trust reposed 
in him by that distinguished officer, when he was 
anxious to afford his personal aid to Morgan, who was 
endeavouring to elude the eager pursuit of Lord Corn- 
wallis, and to conduct the prisoners taken at the Cow- 
pens to a i)lace of security. He committed the charge 
of the main army to General Huger, ordering him to 
conduct its retreat, and to join him at Guilford Court- 
House. Accompanied by a small escort of dragoons, 
General Greene then set out in search of Morgan, and 
happily joined him in safety. That Huger's conduct, 
on this occasion, was highly approved cannot be 
doubted, since we find him at the battle of Guilford, 
which immediately followed, intrusted with the com- 
mand of the Continental Line. Here, supporting his 
character for exemplary bravery, he was severely 
woi^nded. At Hobkirk's Hill, he commanded the 



HUGER. 67 

right wing of the army, and had made considerable 
impression on the line of the enemy, when an unfor- 
tunate movement, which threw Gunby's regiment into 
confusion, disconcerted all the measures of General 
Greene, and compelled him to relinquish a victory 
within his grasp, for a retreat, which, though not dis- 
graceful, was necessarily attended with the deepest 
and most poignant mortification. The exertions of 
General Huger, in endeavouring to inspire courage by 
example, and to restore the order that had been lost, 
brought him so frequently to the muzzles of the ene- 
my's muskets, that it was considered by all miracu- 
lous, that he escaped without injury. The abandon- 
ment of the interior country, by Lord Rawdon, very 
soon after this, allowed the General the happiness of 
embracing his family, from which he had been long 
separated. When General Greene was presented to 
them, he, with much emotion, said—*' I would never, 
my dear Huger, have exposed you, as often as I have 
done, to bear the brunt of battle, and varied dangers 
of the field, had I known how numerous and lovely a 
family, were dependant on your protection." 



GENERAL MORGAN. 

This distinguished officer commenced his military 
career under General Braddock, but, in so inferior a 
station, as to have been subjected to corporal punish- 
ment for some unguarded expressions towards a supe- 
rior. It is painful to mention such a circumstance ; 
and I should not have done it, had it not been recorded 
to his honour, that, incapable of entertaining lasting 
resentments, he had been distinguished, during the 

8 



^ MORGAN. 

Revolutionary War, by the generous attention paid to 
every British officer who became his prisoner. Com- 
manding a rifle company before Quebec, he was 
directed, under Arnold, to attack the lower town ; and 
on the retirement of that officer, when wounded, 
taking the van of the assailing column, carried the 
first and second barriers. He even penetrated into 
the upper town, and was in possession of the main 
guard, giving paroles to the officers who surrendered, 
when, every prospect of success being baffled by the 
fall of MontgoQiery, and the enemy enabled to tura 
their entire force against him, he was surrounded and 
taken. His bravery well known, and his activity 
justly appreciated, an attempt was made by an officer 
of rank in the British service, to induce him, by the 
tender of wealth and promotion, to join the royal 
standard ; but, with the true spirit of Republican vir- 
tue, he rejected the proposition, requesting the temp- 
ter — *' Never again to insult him by an offer, which 
plainly implied, that he thought him a villain." 

Advanced to the command of a regiment, his inde- 
fatigable activity greatly contributed to the capture of 
Burgoyne, being regarded, according to the repeated 
declarations of the enemy, as their greatest scourge. 

General Gates considered it as an offence never to 
be forgiven, that Morgan had peremptorily refused to 
coimtenance the intrigues that were to remove the 
Commander in Chief, and to place him at the head of 
the army. He, therefore, never in the slightest degree 
mentioned his meritorious services in his official des- 
patches, and appeared to exalt the claims of other 
officers to a|)plause, the more certainly to mortify 
Morgan. Such malice, however, availed not to de- 
prive him of his full share of glory. His country 
acknowledged the legitimacy of his title to fame ; and 
the captive General declared, in allusion to the i>ar- 
ticular nature of the service in wtiich he was employed, 



MORGAN. 69 

" That he commanded the finest corps in the world." 
His advancement to still higher command, gave in- 
crease to his reputation ; and so long as the heart is 
susceptible of patriotic feeling, and capable of acknow- 
ledging, with gratitude, one of the most splendid and 
momentous achievements that was ever accomplished, 
thebatth' of the Cowpens will raise the heroic gallan- 
try of Morgan to the highest pinnacle of Fame. 



GENERAL OTHO HOLLAND WILLIAMS, 

OF MARYLAND. 

He was no less distinguished by the elegance of his 
manners, and politeness in private society, than by his 
chivalrous enterprise and exemplary constancy in the 
field. The services which he rendered as Adjutant 
General, in perfecting discipline and directing the 
manoeuvrings of the light troops, covering the retreat 
of the army till the accomplishment of the memorable 
passage of the Dan, cannot be too highly estimated. 
Possessing the most perfect self-command, he put 
nothing at hazard, and frequently suffered the oppor- 
tunity to escape, of acquiring advantages, which would 
have increased his own fame, rather than to risk, 
what might in its result, prove injurious to his coun- 
try. Confining my observations to his conduct in the 
Southern War, it is due to his merit to say, that after 
the defeat of the army at Camden, and its abandon- 
ment by Gates, he conducted it to a place of security. 
His country is likewise indebted to him, for his judi- 
cious conduct in the retreat over the Dan, already 
alluded to, and for his exemplary intrepidity in the 
battles of Guilford, Hobkirk's Hill, and Eutaws. iSo 



60 ' WILLIAMS. 

close was the pursuit maintained by Lord Cornwallis, 
that the officers of the cavahy covering the rear, to 
relieve their hunger, have often, while holding the 
bridle with one hand, attempted to roast a piece of 
bacon, stuck on the point of a stick, with the other, 
and been obliged to eat it when scarcely warmed 
through, compelled, by the rapid approach of the 
enemy, to mount and retire. The character of 
General Williams may be drawn in a few words. In 
the field, he exercised caution, united with invincible 
intrepidity ; in camp, the strictest discipline. In the 
cabinet, he distinguished himself by his perspicuity 
and profound intelligence — qualifications which se- 
cured to him, the confidence of his General, the 
esteem of his brother officers, and the love and respect 
of the soldiers he commanded. 



JOHN EAGER HOWARD, 

OF MARYLAND. 

No man possessed, in a higher degree, the confidence? 
of General Greene — none better deserved it. He had 
every requisite for the perfection of the military cha- 
racter — patience, judgment, intrepidity, and decision. 
To his memorable charge with the bayonet at the 
Cowpens, so nobly supported by Washington and his 
cavalry, that important victory is chiefly to be attri- 
buted. Nor do I regard his gallantry less worthy of 
admiration, when, at the battle of Guilford, following 
up the blow inflicted by Washington, he charged the 
second battalion of the British Guards, and nearly 
annihilated them. At Hobkirk's Hill, his effi^rts to 
rally the broken regiment of Gunby, did him high 



HOWARD. 61 

honour ; nor did the bitterness of grief ever pervade 
the human bosom more keenly, than in his, when he 
found all his exertions to revive the courage of men, 
who, on every former occasion, were distinguished for 
intrepidity, was unproductive of the slightest effect. 
At Eutaw, he was severely wounded, but not till he 
had seen his regiment retrieve its tarnished reputation, 
and triumphantly drive the enemy before them. In 
concluding my encomiums on his merits, I do not con- 
sider it an exaggeration to say, in the words of Gen- 
eral Greene — " Howard is as good an officer as the 
world affords, and deserves a statue of gold, no less 
than the Roman and Grecian heroes." 



COLONEL CARRLNGTON, 

OF VIRGINIA. 

I wish I could more particularly speak of the ser- 
vices of Colonel Carrington, as I am well apprized, 
that he enjoyed the entire confidence of General 
Greene; and by hisjudicious councils, and unremitted 
exertions as Quarter Master General, greatly contri- 
buted to the advantages gained over the enemy. It 
is an indisputable fact, that in a country exhausted, 
and deficient in all resources, he still contrived to pro- 
vide such supplies for the comfort and support of the 
army, that he appeared to have achieved impossi- 
bilities, and not a murmur nor complaint impeded the 
progress to victory. A dispute, relative to rank, had 
called him to the North, before it had been my happi- 
ness to receive a commission in the service ; but, pre- 
viously to the evacuation of Charleston, he iiad 
rejoined the army, and resumed his former station : 



Q2 CARRINGTON. 

which gave me ample reason to believe, that where- 
soever placed, -his pre-eminent abilities must have 
been of the highest importance to his country. 



LIEUTENANT COLONEL LEE, 

OF THE LEGION. 

Favoured with his friendship, and honoured by a 
commission in his regiment, in drawing a sketch of 
the character of this distinguished partisan, I may be 
suspected of indulging improper partialities. I dis- 
claim any feeling that could produce them, and would 
far rather, that his reputation should depend upon a 
candid examination of his military services, than any 
commendation, that from grateful attachment, I might 
be inclined to bestow. General Charles Lee, who 
was, beyond question, a competent judge of military 
talent, averred — " That Henry Lee came a soldier 
from his mother's womb." General Greene pro- 
nounced him The Eye of the Southern Army ; and 
to his councils, gave the most constant, implicit, and 
unbounded conlidence. In the hour of difficulty, (and 
from the exhausted and distracted state of the South — 
the wretched and forlorn condition of the army — the 
superiority of force, and endless resources of the 
enemy, it was, to us, a war of difticulties,) was danger 
to be averted, was prompt exertion necessary to pre- 
vent revolt — crush insurrection — cut off supplies — 
harass the enemy, or pursue Inm to destruction — to 
whom did he so often turn as to Lee? That such 
preference should give birth to Envi/, and cause the 
calumnies arising from it, to be i)roi)agated, and che- 
rished with an avidity that would almost lead to the 



LEE. 63 

supposition, that they were believed correct, cannot, 
from the perverse propensities of the human heart, be 
considered surprising. Lee had his enemies, and they 
were not slow in giving currency to opinions injurious , 
to his reputation. Measuring the extent of his powers, 
by the contracted scale of their own abilities, no 
allowance was made for the calculations of superior 
genius ; and the acuteness of almost unerring discern- 
ment ; and because he did not, on all occasions, en- 
gage with a blind precipitancy, according with their 
judgment, would have fixed on him the imputation of 
a shyness, that he never knew. Tn his memoirs, 
which, as a literary composition, do him high honour, 
it is remarkable, that he is so shy in claiming merit ; 
and certainly, in various instances, has withheld pre- 
tensions, which he might have fairly made, to high 
distinction. He has not hinted, in the slightest de- 
gree, that the grand scheme, for the recovery of the 
two Southern States, when Lord Cornwallis, after 
the battle of Guilford, retired to Wilmington, was 
first suggested to General Greene by him ; and that it 
would have been afterwards abandoned, but for his 
earnest remonstrances. Such, however, was the truth, 
and i)errect the evidence corroborating it. In reply to 
my inquiries on the su!)iect, the Honourable Judge 
Johnston, of Abingdon, Virginia, a meritorious and 
distinguished officer of the Revolution, says — " I am 
perfectly satisfied, that the grand enterprise, for the 
recovery of South Carolina and Georgia, by marching 
into those states, when Lord Cornwallis retired to 
Wilmington, originated with Colonel Lee. Accident 
afforded me the view of a letter, written by General 
Greene to Colonel Lee, immediately after the second 
battle of Camden, fought on the 25th of April, 1781, 
in which the General expressed a determination to 
abandon the scheme of continuing his progress south- 
wardly ; and directed Lee to join him immediately 



64 LEE. 

with his corps, which had, about that time, reduced 
the post of the enemy at Wright's Bluff, on the San- 
tee River. I shall never forget one expression, in that 
letter, which goes very far to prove, that I am right, 
in the opinion that I have ever since entertained. ' I 

* fear, my friend, said the General, that I have pursued 

* your advice too far, I have resolved to march back 

* with the army towards Virginia, and desire that you 

* will join me with your command as soon as possible.' 
Without a moment's delay. Colonel Lee left the le- 
gion, and sought General Greene, doubtless to coun- 
teract the pernicious tendency of this hasty resolution, 
since he speedily returned, countermanded the orders 
to unite with the main army, crossed the Santee, and 
marched rapidly forward to lay siege to Fort Motte." 
This statement is fully supported by the testimony of 
Dr. Matthew Irvine ; and more satisfactory authority 
could not be desired, since he was actually the agent, 
the organ of communication betwixt the two, while 
the scheme was in agitation, and ripening for per- 
fection. Communication, by letter, was considered 
as inexpedient and dangerous ; and by personal inter- 
views with the parties, delivering opinions reciprocally, 
and conveying the answers to them, he became the 
happy instrument of bringing to maturity, the plan 
that gave liberty to the South. The letter mentioned 
by Judge Johnston, my correspondent, was seen also 
by Dr. Irvine. He states, that the General added — 
*' Although I am confident, that your wish was, to 
give increase to my military reputation ; yet, it is evi- 
dent to me, that by listening to your advice, I have 
forfeited my pretension to it for ever." Can further 
evidence be required ? In the eyes of the unpreju- 
diced, I should say, certainly not. Believing, then, 
that Lee's advice to General Greene, induced him to 
transfer the war into South Carolina, I shall briefly 
state the consequences resulting from the measure. 



LEE. 65 

North Carolina became encouraged, by finding that 
her future security was not considered as endangered, 
and the Partisan Commanders of the South, Sumter, 
Marion and Pickens, who, unsupported, had already 
effected wonders, were now stimulated to give in- 
crease to activity and enterprise, from the! conviction, 
that they would not only contend with the enemy upon 
more equal terms, but be enabled, more effectually, to 
maintain the advantages resulting from their valour and 
their victories. The fall of the military posts held by 
the enemy, followed in rapid succession. The sur- 
render of Fort Watson, Fort Motte, Fort Granby, in 
South Carolina, and of Fort Cornwallis at Augusta, in 
Georgia, give the stamp of judicious foresight to the 
councils of L^e. Nor is less applause due to the 
skill and enterprise attributed to him, in their reduc- 
tion. Had he directed the operations of the besiegers 
at Ninety-Six, instead of Kosciusko, different indeed 
would have been the result. On his arrival at the 
post, immediately after the capture of Fort Corn- 
wallis, he, with the eye of a soldier, at once perceived, 
that the plan of operations, and point of attack, 
adoi)ted and pursued by General Greene, had not been 
advantageously chosen. With that exquisite military 
sagacity, which cannot be denied him, he immediately 
satisfied the Commander in Chief, that th,e place 
would be easily carried, by obtaining possession of the 
western redoubt, a slight fortification at a distance 
from the enemy's main work, but of great importance, 
since it completely commanded the only fountain from 
which the garrison could procure water ; and subse- 
quent events incontestibly proved, that if his plan had 
been adopted in the first instance, the fort must have 
fallen, even though defended by the gallantry of Cru- 
ger, seconded by his able coadjutor, Green. ^ la 

* Major in a Provincial Regiment. 

9 



66 LEE. 

evidence of his services, and the extensive benefits 
resulting from them, it is only necessary to give an 
extract of a letter from General Greene, expressed in 
the following terms : — " Lieutenant Colonel Lee re- 
tires for a time for the recovery of his health. I am 
more indelited to ^/if 5 officer, than to any other, for the 
advantages gained over the enemy, in the operations 
of the last campaign; and should be wanting in gra- 
titude, not to acknowledge the importance of his ser- 
vices, a detail of which is his best penegyric." Da- 
ted February 18th, 1782. 

Of the horses of his regiment, he has been fre- 
quently accused of being too careful ; but, considering 
the advantages accruing from a precaution, by which a 
constant superiority of cavalry was maintained, how 
can he be blamed with justice, more especially, when 
it is known, that the number of prisoners taken in a 
single campaign, by the dragoons of the Legion, dou- 
bled their effective number; and that every individual 
of the corps, was armed with a Potter\s sword, the 
weapon the most highly estimated for service, taken in 
personal conflict from the enemy. Of the lives of his 
infantry he was never sparing. There was no action 
in which they were engaged, in which they did not 
perform a conspicuous part ; while the lamentable fate 
of poor Whaling, and his followers, (fully detailed in 
another part of this work) evince, that their fall was 
regarded as a needless and unnecessary sacrifice. Of 
the free exposure of his person, w here example was 
necessary to excite to gallant achievemi^nt, there can 
be no doubt. If there are any who cherish less cha- 
ritable opinions, they must deny discernment to 
Greene, who employed him in the most hazardous 
enterprises ; and judgment to the immortal Washing- 
ton, who, when the insurrection took place in the 
upper parts of Pennsylvania, placed him at the head 
of the army, with a declaration, that he considered 



LEE. 67 

him the man in the United States, the best calculated 
to suppress it, with promptitude, and effect. Towards 
his officers, he possessed the most friendly and affec- 
tionate feelings. To his soldiers, he was a parent — • 
he was attentive to their wants, and indulgent to their 
wishes. His constant and assiduous care, was exer- 
cised to procure them comforts, and with such effect, 
that while other corps were almost entirely destitute 
of clothing, the Legion were enabh^l, invariably, to 
preserve a highly respectable appearance. I would 
mention, with particular commendation, the vis;ilance 
of Colonel Lee. Surprised, when a Captain in 
Bland's regiment, near Philadelphia, he profitted by 
experience, and was, to the end of the war, so atten- 
tive to the security of the force which he commanded, 
that, whenever within striking distance of the enemy, 
the Sergeant of the Quarter Guard, invariably, at 
midnight, woke up ever Officer and Private Soldier, 
who, by order, putting on their entire dress and accou- 
trements, might again seek repose, but in such a 
position, that on the firing of a musket, or tap of a 
drum, every man was at his post, prepared for action, 
or ready for retreat, as circumstances required. When 
surprised at the Spread Eagle Tavern, near Philadel- 
phia, and surrounded by the entire British cavahy, he 
assured the dragoons under his command, who gal- 
lantly joined in defending the house, that he should 
consider their future estal)lishment in life, as his pecu- 
liar rare ; and he honourably kept his word. They 
were all, in turn, commissioned ; and by their exem- 
plary good conduct, increased their own renown, and 
the reputation of their regiment. 



68 WASHINGTON. 



GENERAL WILLIAM WASHINGTON. 

WiTEi no loss respect and admiration, would I re- 
cord the gallant achievements of the modern Marrelliis: 
the sword of his cow??i??/-^Lieiitenant Colonel William 
Washington, who, at the first call to arms, engaged in 
the military service, and to the termination of the war, 
appeared on the field of glory with pre-eminent dis- 
tinction. He fought, with his gallant regiment, at 
York Island, and receiving merited applause, shared its 
difficulties and dangers on the retreat through New 
Jersey. At the surprise of the Hessians at Trenton, 
as a Captain in the line, he headed the van of one of 
the assailing columns; and, while leading on his com- 
pany to the attack, was severely wounded in the hand. 
He was now transferred, with an increase of rankj to 
the cavalry ; and having the good fortune to escape 
the slaughter at Tappan, with the remains of Bland's, 
Baylor's, and Moylan's regiments of horse, was de- 
tached to join the army of General Lincoln, in South 
Carolina. His first rencontre with the enemy, took 
place betwixt Ashley Ferry and Rantowle's Bridge, 
where he drove back the cavalry of the British Le- 
gion, commanded by Lieutenatit Colonel Tarleton, 
and took several prisoners ; but, being unsupported by 
infantry, gained little advantage from his success. The. 
surprises at Monk's Corner, and Laneau's Ferry, 
which had nearly caused the entire destruction of tlie 
American cavalry, are, in no degree, attributable to 
him, as he acted, in both instances, in a subordinate 
capacity; and at the last place, finding his advice to 
pass the River without delay, disregarded, he pre- 
pared for the catastrophe, and on the sudden attack of 
Tarleton, plunged into the River, and happily gained 
tlie opposite shore. These repeated disasters, com- 



^ WASHINGTON. 69 

peliin^ him to retire, with the remainder of his corps, 
to the borders of North Carolina, he applied, but in 
vain, to General Gates, for tlie aid of his name and 
authority, to expedite its restoration and equipment. 
Severely did that infatuated General pay the penalty 
of his injudicious refusal. Had the request been 
attended to, the presence of a superior cavalry, led by 
so distinsuished a soldier as Washington, might greatly 
have influenced the success of the battle, and, at all 
events, prevented the terrible slaughter that followed 
the defeat at Camden. While attaclied to the light 
corps commanded by General Morgan, he, by a very 
ingenious stratagem, carried the post at Rugely's, 
taking a large body of the enemy, without firing a 
single shot. Apprized of the character of his oppo- 
nent, Rugely, he fixed a pine log on the front wheels 
of a wagon, so as to make it appear, at a distance, 
as a field-piece, and threatening immediate destruc- 
tion should resistance be attempted; the affrighted 
Colonel requested, that quarter might be allowed, and 
surrendered at discretion. It was on this occasion, 
that Lord Cornwallis, writing to Lieutenant Colonel 
Tarleton, laconically said — " Rugely will not be a 
Brigadier." He, in a high degree, contributed to the 
achievement of the brilliant victory at the Cowpens, 
although his too ardent zeal had nearly cost him his 
life ; for, anxious by example, to increase the energy 
of pursuit, he was led so far in advance, as to be sur- 
rounded b}'^ several officers of the British Legion ; and 
must have fallen, had he not been rescued by the gal- 
lantry of a Sergeant, and his Bugleman, Ball^ who, by 
a well-aimed pistol-shot, disabled the officer, whose 
sword was raised for his destruction. In the retreat 
into Virginia, and in all the manoeuvres subsequent to 
the recrossing of the Dan, he essentially aided to 
bafile the skilful efforts of Lord Cornwallis, to force 
General Greene, heading an inferior army, to battle. 



70 WASHINGTON. 

At Guilford, he acted a most conspicuous part. By 
a spirited and most judicious charge, he broke the re- 
giment of Guards commanded by Colonel Steward, 
who fell in the action, and followed by the gallant 
Colonel Howard, leading on the Marylanders, with 
fixed bayonets, nearly annihilated them. Trifles 
have often, in the heat of battle, been productive of 
the most unlooked for consequences. Washington's 
cap fell, and while he dismounted to recover it, a 
round of grape, from the British artillery, fired by the 
order of General Webster, on friends as well as foes, 
the more effectually to check the success of the Ame- 
ricans, so grievously wounded the officer next in 
command, that, incapacitated from managing his 
horse, the animal wheeled round and carried him off 
the field, followed by the rest of the cavalry, who 
unhappily supposed that the movement had been di- 
rected. This accident saved the remnant of the 
Guards, and, in all probability, the entire British army. 
I heard, from an officer of distinction in the army of 
the enemy, who was w^ounded in this action, the fol- 
lowing interesting particulars : — " 1 was near General 
Webster, when the charge was made by Washington. 
The desperate situation of the Guards, had its effect 
on all around. An officer of rank, in the American 
army, quickly perceiving it, rode up to the British 
line, and called aloud, ' surrender, gentlemen, and be 
certain of good quarters.' Terrified by appearances, 
and concluding that defeat was inevitable, the soldiers 
of the regiment De Bose, were actually throwing 
down their arms. Confusion was increasing. Gen- 
eral Webster, whose presence of mind could not be 
disturbed, exclaimed — ' Unless that gallant fellow is 
taken off, we are lost.' A Lieutenant of artillery, 
bringing ui) a field-piece at the moment, was directed 
to fire into the throng, where the Guards now a|)peared 
to be greatly out-numbered, and did so with the happiest 



WASHINGTON. 71 

success — the cavalry wheeled off, the remains of the 
battah'on rallied, and the army was saved." At Hob- 
kirk's Hill, new honours awaited him. Gaining the 
rear of the British army, by judicious manoeuvring 
during the action, he captured and parolled eleven offi- 
cers, and made prisoners of upwards of two hundred 
men — fifty of whom he brought off the field ; the 
retreat of the American forces obliged him to relin- 
quish the remainder. But, in the evening of the day 
on which the engagement took place, having decoyed 
Collin, who commanded the horse of the enemy, into 
an ambuscade, he charged him with an intrepidity that 
could not be withstood, and compelled him, after the 
loss of half of his men, to fly and take shelter in 
Camden. At the battle of Eutaw, though unfor- 
tunate, no hero had ever, in a higher degree, merited 
success. His repeated charges on the British light 
infantry, would, probably, have disconcerted a corps 
less brave, or commanded by any other officer than 
Majoribanks;^ but, they maintained their position with 
a steadiness that could not be subdued ; and in a last 
effort for victory, Washington's horse being killed, he 
became entangled, as he fell, in the ranks of the 
enemy, and being unable to extricate himself, was 

'* This distinguished officer is still spoken of in St John's with great 
respect. He was the foe to oppression, and guardian of the unfortunate. He 
suffered no severities within the reach of his command ; nor withheld his 
beneficence where the power appeared of doing good, even from the fami- 
lies of his most decided opponents. He fell a martyr to disease, and is buried 
on the plantation of Daniel Ravenel. An old Negro, still living, has often 
pointed out his grave, and added, this is the officer w ho turned aside the 
soldier's bayonet, who would have killed Colonel Washington, when he fell 
at Eutaw. The fact which, I doubt not, gives him new claims to our ad- 
miration. The Commanding Officer had his grave enclosed, and a cypress 
board, (which still remains) placed at his head, with the following modest 
inscription : 

John Majorieanks, Esquire, 
Lnte Major in the \9th Ret^t. Inf, and commanding a flank holtnlion 
of his Majtstifs army, Obit. 22 J Or/. 1781. 



72 WASHINGTON. 

bayoneted and taken. The intrepid conduct of his 
f^allant followers, cannot be too highly extolled- — 
Captain Watts, the second in command, tlm Lieute- 
nants Stuart, Kinc;, Gordon, and Simons, were 
wounded ; Mr. Carlisle, a volunteer, killed, and half 
of the men destroyed. After which, the residue were 
drawn off by Captain Parsons, the only officer who 
escaped without injury. The action at the Eutaws, 
was the last in which Lieutenant Colonel Wasiiington 
was engaged. Remaining a prisoner to the conclusion 
of the war, he married a lady, equally distinguished 
by her virtues and accomplishments, and settled in 
South Carolina. Possessing a very considerable pro- 
perty, he indulged in unbounded hospitality, receiving, 
with affectionate attention, his military associates, and 
maintaining the respectable character of a liberal and 
independent country gentleman. 

The eclat of his military services occasioned his 
immediate election to the Legislature, where it soon 
became evident, that he possessed every requisite to 
render himself as much distinguished in Council, as 
he had been in the field. His intuitive knowledge 
was great; and by his assidious application to business, 
received daily improvement. His friends, who clearly 
perceived that he possessed far greater claims to ta- 
lent, than his extreme modesty would admit, were 
anxious to place him at the head of the State Go- 
vernment : but, it was in vain that they essayed to 
excite him to become a candidate for the office. " My 
ambition is," he constantly said, " to devote my ser- 
vices to my country ; but, there are two powerful 
reasons which render it impossible for me to aspire to 
the honour of governing the State. The first is, that 
till lately I was a stranger aniong you ; and, in my 
opinion, the Chief Executive Officer should be a na- 
tive of the land on which he presides. Nor would I, 
on the score of qualification, put my talents in com- 



WASHINGTON. 73 

petition with those of many able men, who are am- 
bitions of the honour. My other reason is insur- 
mountable. If I were elected Governor, I should be 
obliged to make a speech ; and I know, that in doing 
so, without gaining credit in your estimation, the 
consciousness of inferiority, would humble me in my 
own — / cannot make a speecL^^ 

A report having reached Head-Quarters, that the 
author of " Common Sense'^^ was in distress at Phila- 
delphia, it was no sooner communicated to Lieutenant 
Colonel Washington, than he said to a friend — '' I 
cannot bear the idea, that the man, who, by his writ- 
ine^s, has so highly benefited my country, should feel 
the want of bread, while the power is mine to relieve 
him ;" and without a sentence more on the subject, 
by the first post, remitted him a bill for one hundred 
guineas. 

In the year 1810, I was appointed by the Society 
of the Cincinnati, to pronounce an Eulogy, expressive 
of their high sense of his meritorious services, and of 
their deep regret on the loss sustained by his death. 
Circumstances compelled me to decline the honour, 
though I have always considered it as the highest com- 
pliment that could have been paid me by my fellow- 
soldiers, that they deemed me worthy, to detail the 
services, and celebrate the virtues of so good a 
man. 

Colonel Washington was tall and majestic in person, 
exhibiting a manly figure, with every indication of 
superior strength, and corresponding activity. His 
countenance was composed, and rather of a serious 
cast, but evinced the benevolence that characterized 
all his actions. 

The sketch which I have given of his military 
career, falls, in my own estimation, far short of the 
encomiums which are his due. To compensate my 
readers for tlie insufficiency of the attempt, I offer, as 

10 



74 WASHINGTON. 

a treat, the Resolutions published by order of the 
Revolution Society, on the melancholy occurrence of 
his death. 



EESOLUTIONS OF THE REVOLUTION SOCIETY OF SOUTH-CAROLINA. 

The American Revolution Society^ convened on the occasion of 
the recent death of Lieutenant Colonel Washington, feel themselves 
promjited by duty and sensibility, to give utterance to their sentiments 
upon that calamitous event. They who knew the deceased, (and to 
many of this Society, of which he was a member, he was intimately 
known,) could not but have remarked in him, a felicitous combination 
of mind and heart, rarely united, which qualified him to be eminently 
distinguished as a soldier, and esteemed as a citizen : which produced 
in him great virtues untarnished by the association of correspondent 
vices ; which rendered him modest without timidity, generous with- 
out extravagance, brave without rashness, and disinterested without 
austerity ; which imparted firmness to his conduct, and mildness to 
his manners; solidity to his judgment, and boldness to his achieve- 
ments; which armed him with an equanimity unalterable by the 
frowns of adversity, or the smiles of fortune ; and steadiness of soul 
not to be subdued by the disasters of defeat, or elated by the triumphs 
of victory. WHien the Societ}'^ also recollects, that he was a gallant 
soldier, enterprising without ambition, encountering danger, not for 
his own renown, but for his country's independence ; that he was a 
patriot, inflexible without obstinacy, warm without passion, and 
zealous without bigotry ; that in private life he was useful without 
parade, liberal without ostentation, amiable without weakness, and 
honourable without fastidiousness, they cannot permit him to descend 
to the silent tomb, and refrain from expressing some mark of reve- 
rence and ailection for his worth ; however frail and evanescent these 
testimonials may be, it will nevertheless manifest that they honoured 
the deceased when hving, and that they cherish the remembrance of 
his virtues and services after death. 

Therefore, Resolved, That the members of this Society do wear 
crape on their left arm for thirty days, as a tribute of respect to the 
memory General William Washington. 



WASHIiNGTON. - 76 

Resolved, That the President be requested to transmit a copy of 
these resolutions to Mrs. Washington, and to express to her the deep 
regret of this Society for the great loss she has sustained. 

Resolved, That the foregoing resolutions be published in the Ga- 
7iettes of this city. 

Bi/ Order of the Society, 

William Crafts, President. , 
John Cripps, Treasurer and Secretary. 



GENERAL GREENE. 

To distinguish with commendation, equal to his 
merits, so good and great a man, is, confessedly, be- 
yond my ability. Having been honoured by his 
friendship, and a member of his military family, the 
opportunity I enjoyed, of taking a more critical view 
of his character, strongly impresses the belief, that it 
was exalted be^ ond the reach of ade;;uate praise. In 
presenting it to view, an opportunity will be afforded 
me, of exhibiting the sentiments of. more competent 
judges, while I reserve to myself, the privilege of 
asking — " Whether such multiplied evidence, as I 
shall produce of private worth, and public utility, of 
captivating virtues, and superior talents, do not give 
to General Greene, an exalted claim to superior intel- 
ligence .?" 

^^ Great is my disappointment, that a gentleman, 
admirably well qualified to do justice to his memory 
— a soldier who had served under him — a friend, 
whom he loved, after having made considerable ad- 
vances in the delineation of his life and character, 
withholds it from the public. Judge Pendleton, of 
New York, to whom I allude, shared with General 
Greene, in all the dangers and difficulties of the 
Southern War, and had daily opportunity of witness- 



76 GREENE. 

ing the developement and exercise of those brilliant^ 
talents, which caused him, like the Great Frederick, 
" to shine with greatest lustre, when hardest prest ;" 
and, ultimately, to establish the liberty and indepen- , 
dence of a large portion of the United States, on a 
basis that can never be shaken. 

To speak of his military capacity — We are told, 
that, on his very first appearance in the camp at Cam- 
bridge, from the ardor of his zeal, unremitted activity, 
and strict attention to every duty, he was pronounced, 
by soldiers of distinction,* a man of real military 
genius. 

" His knowledge (said General Knox to a distmV 
guished citizen of South Carolina,t) is intuitive. He\ 
came to us, the rawest, and most untutored being ; 
I ever met with ; but, in less than twelve months, he j 
was equal, in military knowledge, to any General/ 
Officer in the army, and very superior to most of them.^ 

The British officer, who opposed him in Jersey, 
writes — " Greene is as dangerous as Washington ; he 
is vigilant, enterprising, and full of resources. With 
but little hope of gaining any advantage over him, I 
never feel secure when encamped in his neighbour- 
hood,"! 

To speak of his disinterestedness, General Wash- 
ington gives the following honourable testimony of 
his character : — " There is no Officer in the army 
more sincerely attached to the interests of his country 
than General Greene. Could he but promote these 
interests in the character of a corporal, he would ex- 
change, without a murmur, his epaulette for the knot. 
For, although he is not without ambition, that am- 
bition has not for its object, the highest rank, so much 
as the greatest good." 

In compliment to his brilliant successes, the Chi- 
valier de la Luzerne, the Minister of France, who, as 

^ Colonel Piclvering and others, t Judge Desaussure. * Lord Cornwallis 



GREENE. 77 

a Knight of Malta, must be considered as a competent 
jiidse of military merit, thus speaks of him : — " Other 
Generals subdue their enemy by the means with which 
their country, or sovereign furnishes them ; but, 
Greene appears to subdue his enemy by his owu 
means. He commenced his campaign, without either 
an army, provisions, or military stores. He has asked 
for nothing since ; and yet, scarcely a post arrives 
from the South, that does not bring intelligence of 
some new advantage gained over the foe. He con- 
quers by magic. History furnishes no parallel to 
this." 

.Previous to his appointment to the command of the 
''^^Southern Army, he had acquired a considerable share 
of professional reputation. The Commander in Chief, 
recommending him to Congress, says — *' He is an 
Officer, in whose abilities, fortitude and integrity, from 
a long and intimate experience of him, I have the 
most entire confidence." 

He had long been his intimate associate ; and it has 
often been said, that he so highly approved the excel- 
lence of his heart, and was so fully satisfied of his 
pre-eminent talents, and ability to direct the operations 
of an army, that, in the event of his own death, he 
strongly urged that he should be advanced to the 
supreme command. 

I shall now, more particularly, detail his services ; 
for in all that regards so good and so great a man, I 
consider every circumstance of importance. General 
Greene contributed to the security of the army in the 
retreat through the Jerseys. He displayed the best 
conduct and most distinguished intrepidity at Trenton, 
Brandywine, Germantown, and Monmouth. He con- 
ducted the retreat at Rhode Island, with consummate 
skill, after having vainly endeavoured to procure the 
co-operation of the fleet of D'Estang. Had his 
solicitation been successful, it must have placed the 



78 GREENE. 

entire force of the enemy in our hands. But, it was 
in consenting to be placed at the head of the Quarter 
Master General's Department, conformably to the 
earnest wishes of the Commander in Chief, that he 
rendered incalculable benefit to his country. His 
natural disposition led him rather to seek for laurels in 
tlie field of battle, than to the safer duty of providing 
resources for others. But, considering the benefit 
that would result to his country, as superior to every 
selfish feeling, he uttered no complaint ; and so com- 
l)letely justified the expectations formed of his capacity 
and persevering industry, that, when retiring from the 
station. General Washington said to him—" You have 
rendered the path of duty in the Quarter Master's ) 
Department, so broad and plain, that it will not be/ 

easy for your successors to mistake it." . ■ 

On his arrival in Carolina, he found a country every 
where marked with outrage, desolation, and blood, 
and an enemy bold in enterprise, and flushed with 
success, prepared to crush him. The prospect was 
truly appalling. The remnant of the army, delivered 
up by Gates, consisted not only of inferior numbers, 
but was mostly composed of militia, dispirited by mis- 
fortune, and entirely destitute of every adequate means 
to sanction the hojie of effectual resistance. Their 
j)rovisions were exhausted — the comfort of decent 
clothing was unknown — and the want of arms and 
ammunition so great and deplorable, as to render im- 
practicable, every attempt to commence active opera- 
tions. Yet, beneath such an accumulation of difficulty, 
his resolution sunk not. His immediate care was, to 
obtain a supply of subsistence and ammunition, to 
increase the comfort of iiis troo|)s, and to perfect their 
discipline. This he so completely effected, that in a 
very short time, the condition of the army was so 
much ameliorated, that the recollection of misfortune 
was lost ; and with the utmost confidence in his 



GREENE, 79 

ability, they solicited their General to advance, de- 
claring, that iHider his guidance, they considered victory 
as secure. But, tliou^h delighted with this propitious 
change in the disposition of his troops, his future 
hopes and high confidence, were derived from the 
known characters of the Officers under his command. 
Aided by the zeal, activity, enterprise, and varied ta- 
lents of Huger, Morgan, Williams, Carrington, How- 
ard, Washington, and Lee, in the regular Line, and of 
Sumter, Marion, Pickens, and Davie, the Partisan 
Commanders of the militia, he looked forward, with no 
presumptuous hope, to the certainty of success. It is 
a tribute justly due to their merits, to say, that he was 
particularly fortunate in the choice of the Aids-de- 
Camp, then serving in his family. Burnett, Morris, 
Hyrne, Pierce, Pendleton, and Shubrick, were Offi- 
cers of no common character, and daily evinced, that 
they were worthy of the honour bestowed on them.* 

* In addition to the advantages accruing to General Greene, from the ta- 
lents of the distinguished characters attached to his command, I consider 
him particularly fortunate, while in active service, in the selection he had 
made of his Aids-de-Camp. The attachment to his person, and devotion to 
his will, of Colonel Morris, Majors Burnett, Pierce, and HYRNE,and Captains 
Pendleton and Shubrick, while grateful and flattering to himself, he proudly 
acknowledged essentially beneficial to the service ; it gave energy to exertion, 
display to their abilitieB, and caused each, in succession, to be honoured with 
the thanks of Congress^ To the watchfulness of Colonel Morris, to whom the 
General was most sincerely attached, he handsomely acknowledged his se- 
curity from captivity, and, probably, his escape from death, at the battle of 
Guilford. Burnett and Pendleton, pre-eminently possessed the talents the 
best fitted for conducting the important business of Head Quarters. Pierce, 
admirably qualified to conciliate all who apj)roached the General, with com- 
plaints or solicitation. He well knew how to give additional sense of obliga- 
tion to favours granted, and parry, without offending, unreasonable requests ; 
and even to give to direct refusal such an appearance of justice, as to prevent 
complaint. Hvrne excelled in negotiation, while his honourable scars 
evinced, that he was no less bold than intelligent. Shubrick was no less 
distinguished: To convey orders through every peril — to assail with the 
column he was directed to see advance— to charge with the troop com- 
manded to fall on the enemy, no man possessed more chivahic gallantry 
than he did. He had constantly shown himself an Officer of talent and 
eiiterprise ; and not only will his name be enrolled among the heroes of 



80 GREENE. 

Every necessary preparation beinis; now made, for 
the commencement of hostilities, General Morgan was 
detached to enter South Carolina, and take a position 
on the left of Cornwallis, while General Greene, at 
the head of the main army, moved to the Cheraw 
Hills, about seventy miles to his right. 

It is not my intention to give details of the battles 
fought, and of victories gained ; nor of the skilful 
manoeuvres practised to avoid action, when, conse- 
quences too mosnentous, would have been put at haz- 
ard by defeat ; but, looking to the results, I feel con- 
fident in saying, that greater prudence, more happy 
and accurate discernment in anticipating events — more 
promptitude to profit by favourable occurrences, were 
never displayed by any General, in ancient or in 
modern times, than by General Greene. I mention it- 

the Revolution, from his own merits, but to future generations, shine ^ 
with additional lustre, from the pre-eminent intrepidity of his gallant offspring. 
Sis sons has he given to the service of his country. The two eldest died 
before the aggressions of an enemy, gave opportunity to evince their 
devotion to their native land. Of Captain John Templar Shubrick, how 
shall I speak ? — How, in terms sufficiently energetic, express my admiration of 
his exalted worth ? The brave, the heroic youth, who, thrice in the space of 
twelve months, saw the flag of Britain floating beneath the banners of his 
country — " the Lion prostrate beneath the basilisk glance of the triumphant 
Eagle." His merits are beyond the reach of encomium. Imagination may 
lead us to conceive, of w hat might have been expected from him — but, alas • 

" He is gon£ — and tdolalrous fancy 

Jihist sanctify his relics." 

The share which Lieutenant William Shubrick had, in the capture of the 
Cyane and Levant, gave ample testimony of his merits. Lieutenant Edward 
Shubrick was less fortunate in the opportunity of displaying his gallantry, but 
not less eager to meet the foe ; and in different cruizes under Commodore 
RoDGERS, did an infinity of miscliief to their trade, conveying many valuable 
prizes, with safety, into port. Irvine Shubrick, the sixth brother, began his 
career under the cloud of misfortune He was captured on board the Presi- 
dent, but lost no honour ; and had the satisfaction of perceiving, by the com- 
plete discomfiture of the Endymion, that had the contending force been more 
equal, another naval victory had graced the annals of his country. From 
youths of such promise, what n:ay not be expected, should war be again the 
poition of our country. 



GREENE. 81 

to the honour of the gentlemen of his family, who 
were present at the battle of Guilford, that imme- 
diately previous to its commencement, they waited 
upon him in a body, earnestly to solicit — " That he 
would put their lives at every hazard ; but that he 
would be careful of his own, as the service would not 
suiter by their loss, but that his fall would not only be 
fatal to the army, but, in all probability, greatly retard, 
if not destroy, every hoi)e of securing the indepen- 
dency of the South." His ardour, however, was not 
to be restrained. The exposure of his person was 
his least consideration ; and it had nearly cost him his 
liberty ; for a party of the British Guards, pursuing 
the flying militia, passed within a very few yards of 
him, but not till the warning voice of an Aid-de- 
Camp, had given him time to place himself in security. 
In writing, shortly after, to Mrs. Greene, he says — 
"To my friend Morris, 1 am indebted for my safety." 
^ The loss of cannon, in action, has always been con-^ 
sidered as the most certain testimony of defeat. — 
General Greene felt this ; and when compelled to 
retire before the enemy, at Hobkirk's Hill, finding the 
horses belonging to the artillery, too much crippled to 
remove the pieces brought into the field, dismounted 
himself, and putting his hand to the drag-ropes, gave 
such animation to the exertions of the men, that they 
were carried off in safety. 

And here I would mention, that his military occu- 
pations had made but little alteration in his principal 
habits, and that, in simplicity of manners, he was still 
a Quaker. 

Exertion being imperiously called for, after the bat- 
tle of Guilford, and his own, as well as the wounded 
of the British, who had been left and recommended to 
his humanity, impeding his movements, he, in the 
style the best suited to his views, so pathetically ad- 
dressed the Society of Friends, in the neighbourhood, 

11 



32 GREENE. 

that they immediately tenderer! their services, to give 
relief to the afflicted, and left him at full liberty to 
pursue the retiring enemy. 

One talent he possessed, in the highest degree, bene- 
ficial to the service — an accurate discernment of the 
ca|)acities and peculiar traits of genius, characterizing 
the Officers under his command, and of applying them 
in the manner in which they promised to produce the 
best effects. Lee, he considered his eye — Washington 
his arm; now, although I have no doubt, but that 
Washington would have succeeded in conducting the 
si( ges of the posts held by the enemy, (for he had 
shown at Rugely's, that he was not deficient in strata- 
gem ;) and am perfectly convinced, that Lee would 
have headed a charge of cavalry with the gallantry of 
a hero, yet, it will scarcely be denied, but that the for- 
mer was more in his proper sphere, in causing the 
enemy to fly before the vigour of his attacks; the last, 
in the exercise of the fertile expedients that produced 
the end to be accomplished, more certainly, than if 
attempted by force and violence. To Sumter and 
Pickens, who commanded a bold and hardy race of 
men, who had never submitted, was peculiarly in- 
trusted, the conduct of the enterprises where bold and 
impetuous attacks were the most essential to success. 
To Marion, was assigned, the more difficult duty of 
conciliating the disaffected ; and by the gentleness and 
suavity of his manners, and perfect knowledge of the 
human heart, reconciling to themselves, and to their 
country, the men who, by the delusion of fair pro- 
mises, or threats of violence, had yielded temporary 
obedience to the enemy. Not, however, confining 
the abilities of so distinguished a soldier, to such 
views alone, but encouraging him to pursue that mode 
of warfare so happily adapted to his genius — harassing 
detachmetits — cutting off supplies — exciting peri)etual 
alarm — and striking, with effect, the points where he 



GREENE. nS 

was least expected, till his name became so formi- 
dabl(?, that, to pass the limits of encampment, was 
considered the immediate prelude to death or captivity. 
But, in no instance, did he show greater accuracy of 
judgment, than in the appointment of Colonel Otho 
H. Williams, to the command of the light troops, who 
were to cover his retreat into Virginia ; for nev^r was 
man better suited to the happy discharge of such a 
trust. Perfect in military science, he kept an ardent 
temper under strict control ; was vigilant and circum- 
spect ; always prepared to profit by occasion, but 
never to risk for slight advantage, or endanger the 
security he was strictly commanded to maintain. 

Of General Greene's literary talents, I have little 
to say. His early education had not been conducted 
on an extensive scale ; the knowledge which he pos- 
sessied, v»^as from the inspiration of natural genius, 
and an uncommon strength of mind. When called 
upon to speak, or write with promptitude, on a subject 
that interested him, his ideas were sublime, his ex- 
pressions forcible, and well adapted to the subjed ; 
but, when he aimed at elegance of style, and to give 
to his correspondence the beauty of well-turned 
periods, his compositions were of a different cast. 

When the mutiny of the cavalry took place on the 
Hills of Santee, while Lieutenant Merri weather, who 
brought the intelligence, and waited his dispatchers to 
return, was snatching a hasty meal, I sat by the side 
of the General, transcribing a copy of his address to 
the revolters, as quickly as the sheets on which it was 
written, were thrown to me. At the conclusion, he 
left me, more forcible to impress on the Lieutenant, 
the necessity of despatch, to overtake the corps, to 
read to them his address, and to endeavour to bring 
them back to their duty. In the interim, one of the 
most enlightened Patriots, and distinguished Officers 
of our arm3% entered the apartment. Delighted, my- 



84 GREENE. 

self, I asked his opinion of this hasty production, and 
was gratified to hear him declare : — '' That he had 
never heard an address better calculated to produce the 
effect that might be hoped from it." The General's 
heart had been interested — he felt the disgrace that 
would tarnish the laurels so honourably attained ; and 
writing under the influence of strong emotions, wrote 
well. But, as I said before, whenever he laboured to 
excel, he never succeeded. 

To the gentlemen of his family, he was affable and 
kind, inspiring them with the warmest aifection^Yor 
his person, and admiration of his fame. 

By his Officers he was beloved — by his Soldiers, 
idolized. They knew him brave, and believed him 
invincible. 

Against such a man, the British Commander of the 
South, General Leslie, saw the folly of contention ; 
and till the evacuation of Charleston, contented him- 
self, for many months, to remain, tranquilly, within 
his lines. 



OFFICERS WHO FELL IN THE SOUTHERN WAR. 



It is impossible for me to notice, with just estimation of their talents 
and patriotism, the distinguished miUtary characters who fell pre- 
viously to my return to my native country and connection with the 
army. On the authority of others it is still delightful to record 
them ; and where I fail to bestow the due meed of praise, I trust it 
will be attributed to the true cause, — the want of sufficient informa- 
tion for the proper performance of the duty. 



COLONEL OWEN ROBERTS. 

The untimely fate of Colonel Owen Roberts, who 
fell at Stono, was the cause of universal regret. He 
was an inflexible Patriot, an excellent disciplinarian, 
and an enthusiast in pursuit of military fame. His 
son, who was in the action, hearing of his misfortune, 
hastened to him. The expiring veteran, perceiving in 
his countenance the liveliest sorrow, addressed him 
with great composure : — " I rejoice, my boy, once 
again to see and to embrace you. Receive this sword, 
which has never been tarnished by dishonour, and 
let it not be inactive, while the liberty of your country 
is endangered. Take my last adieu — accept my 
blessing, and return to your duty !" 



86 LAURENS. 



LIEUT. COL. JOHN LAURENS. 

It is with peculiar delislit, that I mention, among 
the most distinguished worthies of the Revohuion, 
Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens; for no man more 
highly merited the gratitude of his country, and by 
none was I ever so highly befriended. 

His general character is so well known, and has 
been so ably depicted by others, that I have little to 
say that can increase its celebrit}''. His extensive 
information, and classical knowledge, obtained the 
respect of the learned. His polite and easy behaviour, 
insured distinction in every polished society. The 
warmth of his heart, gained the affection of his iVi^nds, 
his sincerity their confidence and esteem. His :)a- 
triotic integrity commanded the veneration of his coun- 
trymen — his intrepidity their unlimited api)lause. An 
insult to his friend, he regarded as a wound to his own 
honour. Such an occurrence led him to engage in a 
personal contest with General Charles Lee, who had 
spoken disrespectfully of General Washington. The 
veteran, who was wounded on the occasion, being 
asked — '' How Laurens had conducted himself ?" 
replied — " I could have hugged the noble boy, he 
pleased me so." 

His gallantry, in action, was highly characteristic of 
his love of fame. The post of danger was his favou- 
rite station. Some, indeed, may style his display of 
intrepidity, at every risk, the height of rashness. — 
Strictly speaking, it was so. But, at the commence- 
ment of the war, when the British Officers were per- 
suaded, or affected to believe, that every American 
was a coward, such total disregard of personal safety, 
on the part of Laurens, such display of chivalric in- 
trepidity, that equally excited their surprise and admi- 



LAURENS, 87 

ration, was, essentially, beneficial to our cause. To 
deny that liis anxiety to meet the foe, led him too 
often into unnecessary peril, is impossible. I had, 
too often, cause to see and to lament it. Let one 
instance suffice to prove it. A Centinel on the bank 
of Ashley River, opposite to Dorchester, perceiving a 
Red Coat moving through the brush wood on the 
other shore, gave the alarm that the enemy were 
without their lines. This being communicated to 
Lieutenant Colonel Laurens, a troop of dragoons, and 
a company of infantry of the Legion, were ordered to 
cross the river and reconnoitre. But, the rapidity of 
thr stream determined Captain O'Neal, who com- 
manded, to wait till a boat, which had been sent for, 
should arrive. In the interim, Lieutenant Colonel 
Laurens gallopped up and demanded with warmth, 
" Why this halt, Captain ? — were not orders given to 
cross ?" *' Yes, Colonel, but look to the current, and 
judge if it be practicable." '' This is no time for 
argument," rejoined Laurens. " You, who are brave 
men, follow me." Saying this, he plunged into the 
river, but was instantaneously obliged to quit his 
horse, and with extreme difficulty reached the oppo- 
site shore. O'Neal, than whom a braver man did 
not exist, indignant at the speech of Laurens, replied, 
" Yoii shall see, sir, that there are men here as cou- 
rageous as yourself," and at the head of his troop, 
entered the river. I cannot do justice to the scene 
that followed. All was tumult and confusion ; for, 
although no life was lost, several of the men were so 
nearly drowned, that it became necessary to use every 
means to make them disgorge the water they had 
swallowed ; and all were so much exhausted, that ix 
temporary halt was indispensably necessary. The 
infantry, by the aid of plank, and large doors torn 
from a neighbouring ware-house, passed over with less 
difficultv. In the mean time. Lieutenant Colonel 



38 LAURENS. 

Laurens, attended by Messrs. Ralph and Walter Izard, 
and Mr. Wainwriglit, who ever accompanied him as 
his Aids, hastened to the spot where the British regi- 
mental had been seen. It then was found, that a 
military coat had been hung up in a tree, by a soldier 
who had been whipped and drummed out of the 64th 
Regiment, for drunkenness, and whose lacerated back 
would admit of no covering. 

The exposure of so many valuable lives, connected 
with other causes, induced the Officers of the Legion, 
at an after period, to resign their commissions rather 
than serve under Laurens. 

To speak more particularly of his military achieve- 
ments. His first essay in arms was at Brandy wine. 
At the battle of Germantown, he exhibited prodigies 
of valour, in attempting to expel the enemy from 
Chew's house, and was severely wounded. He was 
engaged at Monmouth, and greatly increased his repu- 
tation at Rhode Island. At Coosawhatchie, defending 
the pass with a handful of men, against the whole 
force of Provost, he was again wounded, and was 
probably indebted for his life to the gallantry of 
Captain Wigg, who gave him his horse to carry him 
from the field, when incapable of moving, his own 
having been shot under him. He headed the light 
infantry, and was among the first to mount the British 
lines at Savannah — displayed the greatest activity and 
courage during the siege of Charleston — entered with 
the forlorn hope, the British redoubt carried by storm 
at York Town, and received with his own hand the 
presented sword of the Commander ; by indefatigable 
activity, tliwarted every effort of the British Garrison 
in Charleston, confining them for upwards of twelve 
months, to the narrow limits of the City and Neck, 
except when under the protection of their shipj)ing, 
they indulged in distant predatory expeditions ; and, 
unhappily, at the very close of the war, too carelessly 



LAURENS. 89 

exposing himself in a trifling skirmish near Com- 
bahee, sealed his devotion to his country in death. 

I consider it highly to the honour of Lieutenant Co- 
lonel Laurens, that when requested to carry a message 
to Provost, on his approach to the lines of Charleston, 
proposing, " neutrality during the continuance of the 
war," he declined it with decision : " I will do any 
thing," said he, " to serve my country, but never bear 
a message that would disgrace her." When General 
Moultrie, who equally spurned the idea of entering 
upon terms with the enemy, declared, in Council, 
" that he would not deliver up his Continentals as 
prisoners of war," Laurens leapt from his seat, and 
exclaimed, "'tis a glorious resolve. General; thank 
God, we are on our legs again." 

But there is one service rendered to his country, which, 
though little known, entitles him to its warmest gratitude. 
When sent by Congress to negotiate a loan from the 
French Government, although his reception was favour- 
able, and encouragement given, that his request would 
be granted, yet the delays perpetually contrived by the 
Minister, the Count de Vergennes, afforded little pros- 
pect of immediate success. Convinced that procrasti- 
nation would give a death blow to Independence, he 
resolved in defiance of all the etiquette of the Court, to 
make a personal appeal to the King. Dr. Franklin, our 
Minister at Versailles, vehemently opposed his inten- 
tion ; and finding Laurens firm in his purpose, he 
said — " I most cordially wish you success, Colonel ; 
but, anticipate so different a result, that I warn you — 
I wash my hands of the consequences." Accordingly, 
at the first levee. Colonel Laurens, walking directly 
up to the King, delivered a memorial, to which he 
solicited his most serious attention, and said — '^ Should 
the favour asked be denied, or even delayed, there is 
cause to fear, that the sword which I wear, may no 
longer be drawn in defence of the liberties of my 

12 



gQ LAURENS, 

Country, but be wielded as a British subject against 
the monarchy of France." His decision met with 
the reward it merited. Apologies were made for 
delays. The Minister gave his serious attention to 
the subject, and the negotiation was crowned with 
success. 

From such a display of chivalric gallantry in early 
life, may not friendship be allowed to say, without the 
imj)utation of improper partiality — To auger from the 
achievements which the past had exhibited, had not 
Death stopped the career of his glory, he would have 
proved a model, both of civil and military virtue, " a 
mirror by which our youth might dress themselves." 



SERGEANT JASPER, 2d Regiment. 

The gallantry displayed by the heroic Jasper, dur- 
ing the battle of Sullivan^s Island, cannot be passed 
over in silence. It has been frequently recorded ; but 
while I notice the achievements of men of superior 
grade, his intrepidity, inhanced by his extreme modesty, 
demands my warmest encomium. The Flag Staff of 
the Fort having been shot away very early in the 
action, Jasper leaped down upon the beach, took up 
the Flag, fixed it to a spunge staff, and, regardless of 
the incessant firing of the shipping, mounted and 
planted it on the rampart. 

Governor Rutledge, in testimony of his admiration 
of so distinguished an act of heroism, presented him a 
Sword, and offered him a Commission. The first he 
grateiully accei)ted, but declined the last. " Were I 
made an Officer," he modestly said, " my comrades 
would be constantly blushing for my ignorance, and I 



JASPER. 91 

should be unhappy, feeling my own inferiority. 1 
have no ambition for higher rank than that of a 
Sergeant." 

Through every subsequent period of the war, his 
conduct was exemplary ; but, in the details which 1 
have seen, carries too much the air of romance, to be 
dwelt upon. He was a perfect Proteus, in ability to 
alter his appearance : perpetually entering the camp 
of the enemy, without detection, and invariably re- 
turning to his own, with soldiers he had seduced, or 
prisoners he had captured. 

During the attack at Savannah, he appeared at the 
head of the assailants, he seized the colours of his 
regiment, which had fallen from the hands of the Lieu- 
tenant who bore them ; but receiving, himself, a mor- 
tal wound, returned them, and retiring, but reached 
the American encampment to expire. 



WILMOTT AND MOORE. 

A few days previous to the evacuation of Charles- 
ton, a very rash expedition, suggested by Colonel 
Kosciusko, occasioned the loss of Captain Wilmott 
and Lieutenant Moore, two of the most distinguished 
Partisans in the service. The object was, to surprise 
a party of wood-cutters from Fort Johnson, working 
in view of the Garrison of Charleston. So much 
was the accuracy of the information doubted, that 
many believed, that the Negro who gave it, had been 
sent expressly to decoy the Americans. Certain it is, 
the party found their enemy prepared, and received so 
deadly a fire, that Wilmott and several of his men, fell 
lifeless, while Moore and many others remained on the 



92 WILMOTT AND MOORE. 

field, covered with wounds. Kosciusko, although a 
spontoon was shattered in his hand, and his coat 
pierced by four balls, escaped unhurt. A British dra- 
goon was in the act of cutting him down, when he 
was killed by Mr. William Fuller, a very young and 
gallant volunteer, who had joined the expedition. 

This was the last bloodshed in the Revolutionary 
contest. The British buried Wilmott with the honours 
of war, and showed the greatest attention to Moore, 
who was removed to Charleston, to receive the best 
surgical assistance. The amputation of the limb, in 
which he received his principal wound, being indis- 
pensible, it was performed within a few days after the 
evacuation, by our own Surgeons ; but, mortification 
rapidly following, he died greatly and universally 
lamented. When first brought into town, great pains 
were taken by the British Surgeons to extract the ball, 
but without success. Mrs. Daniel Hall, in whose 
bouse he lodged, and who had watched over him unre- 
mittingly, being apprized of the business which 
brought the most distinguished Surgeons together, 
entering the apartment of Moore, as soon as they had 
retired, said — " I am happy to find, that you have not 
been subjected to as severe an operation as I had 
anticipated ; you appear to have experienced but little 
agony. I was constantly in the next room, and heard 
not a groan." " My kind friend," he replied, *' I 
felt not the less agony ; but, I would not have breathed 
a sigh, in the presence of British Officers, to have 
secured a long and fortunate existence." 

Colonel Lee, in his Memoirs, mentions a singular 
instance of an Officer of the British Guards, Captain 
Maynard, distinguished, on many occasions, by his 
intrepidity, who, reluctantly, entering into the engage- 
ment at Guilford, foretold the death which he actually 
met. 



WILMOTT AND MOORE. 93 

I consider it, in like manner, remarkable, that Wil- 
mott, whose courage bordered upon rashness, and 
who was never known to impede the progress of any 
enterprise, however hazardous, on being ordered by 
Kosciusko, to get ready for the expedition, said to Mr. 
John Gibbes, one of the youthful volunteers who 
served under him — " I have not my baggage at hand ; 
you must lend me a shift of clothes, my young friend ; 
for, if I fall, which is not unlikely, it would be a satis- 
faction to me, that the enemy should find me clad in 
clean linen." And a bowl of tea being presented to 
him, at the moment, by Miss Mary Anna Gibbes, (the 
same who had risked her life to save from danger her 
infant cousin Fenwick,) he gallantly said — " This atten- 
tion is particularly gratifying. It is delightful to think, 
that the last refreshment that may ever pass my lips, 
was presented by so lovely and amiable a friend." In 
a few hours, he was numbered with the dead. 



LIEUT. COL. RICHARD PARKER. 

The fall of this excellent Officer, is thus feelingly 
noticed by Lee : — " He was one of that illustrious 
band of youths, who first flew to their country's 
standard, when she was driven to unsheath the sword. 
Stout, intelligent, brave, and enterprising, he had 
been advanced from the command of a company, in 
the course of the war, to the command of a regiment. 
Always beloved and respected, late in the siege of 
Charleston, he received a ball in the forehead, and fell 
dead in the trenches, embalmed in the tears of his 
faithful soldiers, and honoured by the regrets of the 
whole army." 



94 MOULTRIE AND NEYLE. 



CAPTS. T. MOULTRIE & PHILIP NEYLE, 

During a sortie made by a detachment of the Gar- 
rison of Charleston, under Lieutenant Colonel Hen- 
derson, with the hope of impeding the approaches of 
the besiegers, much gallantry was displayed, parti- 
cularly by Mr. Daniel Wilson, and Benjamin Singleton, 
then a boy of sixteen, who, when volunteers were 
called for, was the first to offer his service. No 
advantage, however, resulted from it ; a few of the 
enemy were killed, and eleven prisoners taken ; while 
the service lost a zealous and brave Officer, Captain 
Thomas Moultrie, who fell universally lamented. 

Captain Philip Neyle, about the same period, a gen- 
tleman of high accomplishment, refined manners, and 
determined bravery, was killed by a cannon ball. He 
was Aid-de-Camp to General Moultrie, and was 
pressing forward to the lines, exulting in an order 
which he conveyed, to quicken the fire upon the 
€nemy, when the catastrophe occurred, which deprived 
his country of one of its boldest defenders. 



The battle of Eutaw, proved fatal to two Officers 
of distinguished reputation : 

LIEUT. COL. CAMPBELL, 

Of the 1st Virginia Regiment, who had previously, 
under the command of General Greene, both at Hob- 
kirk's Hill, and at the siege of Ninety-Six, gained 
high renown, fell in the decisive charge which broke 
^he British line, and without a struggle expired* 



DUVAL. 95 



LIEUTENANT DUVAL, 

Of the Marylanders, at the same period, closed his 
brilliant career in death. The service did not boast aa 
Officer of more consummate valour, or higher pro- 
mise. He was active, intelligent, and ever foremost 
in the pursuit of glory and renown. At Ninety-Six, 
he led the forlorn hope of Campbell, storming the 
Star Redoubt with exemplary intrepidity ; and at 
Eutaw, had taken a field-piece from the enemy, when 
struck by the fatal ball which terminated his existence. 



MAJOR BENJAMIN HUGER. 

In Major Huger, the service lost an Officer of great 
gallantry, and high promise. He fell, covered with 
wounds, before Charleston, while executing an im- 
portant duty, during Provost's invasion ; and, to in- 
crease the calamity, by friendly hands — the fire which 
destroyed him, proceeding from the American lines. 

The Marquis de la Fayette, and Baron de Kalb, on 
their first arrival on the shores of America, landed on 
North Inland, in Winyaw Bay, and were welcomed, 
with the most cordial hospitality, by the family of 
Major Huger, who made it their summer residence. 

Anxious to pursue the object of their voyage, they 
speedily, under the guidance of their friendly host, 
removed to Charleston, and from thence to the army 
commanded by General Washington, in which they 
both, in a very short time, received honourable 
appointments. 



96 HUGER. 

It required but a short acquaintance with La Fay- 
ette, to feel interested in his success. He was greatly 
admired by his entertainers ; and their sentiments in 
his favour, continually increased by his rising fame ; it 
is not to be wondered at, that the son of the family, 
by constantly hearing the encomiums bestowed on his 
gallantry, and love of liberty, should have cherished 
that enthusiastic attachment to his character, that led 
to as noble an act of friendship and heroism, as adorns 
the page of chivalry. 

The circumstances attending this generous exertion 
of friendship, are so highly interesting in themselves, 
and honoural)le to my gallant countryman, Colonel 
Francis Kinloch Huger, that I trust I shall rather be 
commended than blamed, for more particularly 
detailing them. 

When, at an early period of the French Revolution, 
La Fayette discovered, that the Liberty which he had 
so zealously contended for, and which he had fondly 
hoped to see established in his beloved France, vi^as 
insulted and trampled on ; and that the government 
and destinies of the Nation had passed into the hands 
of men, far more ambitious of self aggrandizement, 
than to promote the true interests of their Country. 
When he saw, that the very individuals, who but a 
little before, had enthusiastically professed themselves 
to be the Apostles of Benevolence and Philanthrophy, 
bewildered by the wildest chimeras of imagination, 
and dreaming of perfections incompatible with the 
frailty of humanity, were now to be satisfied only by 
unlimited increase of power, and appeased in their 
resentment by the unceasing effusion of blood. When 
in the scowl of the giddy multitude, it was evident, 
that the life which he would have sacrificed with de- 
light for the public welfare, was now to be aimed 
at by the dagger of the assassin. Distracted by the 



HUGER. 97 

view of evils that he could not prevent, and fore- 
seeing the miseries that would speedily fall on a 
deluded people, he . retired a voluntary exile, to 
seek an asylum in a foreign land, where, unnoticed 
and unknown, he might pity and lament them. It 
could scarcely be imagined, that under such circum- 
stances, showing no disposition to hostility, uttering 
no word that could offend, no sentence that indicated 
a wish to disseminate the principles of his own poli- 
tical creed, and from the reduced number of his 
adherents, incapacitated from doing injury, that he 
should have been regarded, either as an object of 
apprehension, or distrust; much less, that the effort to 
procure the inestimable blessing of freedom to his 
country, should subject him to penalties, that cannot 
be otherwise considered, when weighed in the scales 
of justice, than as outrages to every principle of 
honour and humanity. Yet, without the slightest 
commisseration for his forlorn condition, or sympathy 
in his unmerited disgrace, he had scarcely entered the 
dominions of the Sovereigns allied against France, 
before he w^as arrested and delivered up to Austria, and 
conducted to Olmutz, to suffer every rigour of perse- 
cution, in solitude, and in a dungeon. The world, 
however, viewed not his misfortunes with cold indif- 
ference. Petitions for his release were presented from 
all quarters ; and in the British House of Commons, 
the motion made for the interposition of the (Govern- 
ment, in the sufferer's behalf, must ever do honour to 
the memory of General Fitzpatrick. Unhappily, the 
Emperor's irritation was, at the moment, exalted to 
the highest pitch, and he remained inexorable. 

The anxious wish to free from captivity, a man who 
had boldly stepped forward the Champion of Liberty, 
originated with Dr. Bolman, a young Hanoverian, 
active, intrepid, and intelligent, but communicated 
confidentially to his friend Huger, with an inquiry, if 

13 



98 HUGER. 

he was inclined to second the enterprise, was em- 
braced with alacrity, and entered on with an ardour, 
that ensured his unremitted efforts to produce its 
accomplishment. The preparatory arrangements were 
speedily settled. Huger feigned indisposition, and 
Bohnan, assuming the character of his attending Phy- 
sician, horses were purchased, and after visiting 
several German cities, the friends arrived at Olmutz* 
Constantly intent on the object of their association, an 
acquaintance was speedily formed with the gaoler, to 
whose custody the illustrious prisoner was committed, 
and without appearing to take too great an interest in 
his fate, by speaking occasionally of the severity of his 
treatment, which they candidly acknowledged, they 
thought disproportioned to his offence, obtained jjermis- 
sion to send him books, that might beguile the tedium of 
solitude, and afford some mitigation of his griefs. The 
gaoler, a simple, benevolent man, saw no improt)riety in 
the transaction, while the books delivered were subject- 
ed to his inspection, and the opportunity afforded of 
ascertaining, that there was nothing improper in their 
contents. Thus, a correspondence was established. 
La Fayette, informed of the source of this unhoped 
for indulgence, at once conceived that more was 
meant than met the eye, he, therefore, carefully pe* 
rused the book, and found, in different places, words 
written with a pencil, which being put together, gave 
him th€ names of the parties, and a clue to their de- 
signs, which, if approved, would at once determine 
them, at all hazards, to free him from his captivity. 
The book was returned with an open note, thanking 
them for their civility in sending it, and an assurance, 
that it had been read with marked attention, and that 
he was, in the highest degree, charmed ivith its con- 
tents. In this manner, and by the stratagem of 
writing in lemon-juice on the back of a note, in its 
visible contents, altogether trivial, with a hint in the 



HUGER. 99 

book sent — " Quand vous aurez lu ce billet mettez le 
aufeu; which, when complied with, caused the in- 
tended communication distinctly to appear in lei2;ible 
characters, he was made acquainted with their ar- 
ran|[!;ements, and the day fixed on to put their plans in 
execution. They had been already apprized by the 
gaoher, that his prisoner, though generally closely con- 
fined, was permitted, under the charge of proper 
attendants, to take exercise without the walls ; that 
he rode in an open cabriolet, accompanied by an Offi- 
cer, and attended by an armed Soldier, who mounted 
behind by way of guard ; and that, when at a distance 
from the walls, that it was their custom to descend 
and walk together, for the better enjoyment of 
exercise. 

On the day appointed. La Fayette was requested to 
gain as great a distance from the town as possible, and 
on their api)roach, by an appointed signal, to discover 
himself, as he was unknown to both. 

Every preliminary being arranged, the friends quitted 
Olmutz, well mounted, Bolman leading a third horse, 
and in anxious expectation awaited the approach of 
the object of their solicitude. 

The city is situated about thirty miles from Silesia, 
in the midst of a plain, which, taking the town as a 
centre, extends three miles each way, without the 
interposition of woods, rocks, or impediments of any 
kind. From the walls, every thing passing within 
these limits, could be distinctly seen. Centinels were 
posted at all points, to give the alarm, whenever a 
prisoner endeavoured to escape, and considerable re- 
wards promised to all who contributed their aid to 
secure him. These were, indeed, appalling difficul- 
ties, but not sufficient to check the ardour of youthful 
enthusiasm, intent to brc^ak the chains of a hero, 
against whom no accusation rested, but an ardent and 

Lore. 



lOQ HUGER- 

unceasing effort to better the condition of his fellow 
men. 

La Fayette, at length, appeared, accompanied by 
his usual attendants. The preconcerted signal was 
given, and returned. A conflict speedily succeded, 
which gave freedom to the prisoner. The led horse 
was presented by Huger, who exclaimed — " Use the 
means, sir, that are offered for escape, and may For- 
tune be your guide ;" but, before he could mount, the 
gleam of the sun upon the sword that had been wrest- 
ed from the Officer, startled the animal, who broke 
his bridle and fled. Bolman rode ofl' in pursuit, 
hoping to overtake him. In the interim, Huger, with 
a generosity truly chivalric, insisted that La Fayette 
should mount the horse that he himself rode, and 
hasten to the place appointed as a rendezvous. — 
" Fly," he exclaimed — " the alarm is given — the pea- 
sants are assembling — save yourself I" The advice 
Avas followed, and in a little time, the fugitive was out 
of sight. Bolman, who had in vain pursued the 
frightened horse, now returned, and taking Huger up 
behind him, gallopped away, follovv'ing the route of La 
Fayette. They had gone but a little way, when the 
horse, unequal to such a burden, stumbled and fell, 
and Bolman was so terribly bruised, as to be scarcely 
able to rise from the ground. The gallant Huger, 
aided his exertions to remount, and superior to every 
selfish consideration, earnestly intreated him to follow 
La Fayette, declaring that he could easily reach the 
woods which bordered the jilain, and in their recesses 
find security. Bolman, though with extreme reluc- 
tance, complied. 

During the rencontre which had taken place, the 
Soldier, who had remained with the cabriolet, instead 
of assisting his Officer, ran off towards the town, but 
the alarm had been given long before his arrival there. 
The transaction had been seen from the walls, the 



HUGER. 101 

cannon fired, and the country raised. Bolman evaded 
his pursuers by telling them, that he himself was in 
pursuit. Huger, less fortunate, was marked by a 
party who never lost sight of him, and being over- 
taken, was seized and carried back in triumph to Ol- 
mutz. Meanwhile, La Fayette was rapidly advancing 
in his flight, and had actually progreesed ten miles, 
when arriving at a spot where the road divided, he 
was at a loss which to choose, and unluckily took the 
wrong one. Its direction very speedily induced him 
to suspect the truth, and he stopped to make inquiry 
of a man, who, concluding that he was a prisoner 
attempting to escape, gave him a wrong direction, 
running to a Magistrate to communicate his suspicion, 
so that La Fayette, at a moment that he believed him- 
self rei^aining a road that would give him security, 
found himself surrounded by an armed force, and 
again a prisoner. To the interrogation of the Magis- 
trate, his answers were so apt and ready, and a tale 
invented to account for the rapidity of his movement, 
so plausible, and so satisfactory, that expressing his 
conviction of his innocence, he was about to dismiss 
him, when a young man entering the apartment, with 
papers which required Magisterial signature, after 
fixing his eyes attentively on the prisoner, said — 
" This is General La Fayette ! I was present when 
he was delivered up by the Prussians to the Austrian 

Commandant, at . This is the man, I cannot be 

mistaken." This declaration at once settled his fate. 
He too, was triumphantly conducted to Olmutz. 
Bolman escaped into Prussian Silesia, but after two 
days, was arrested and again delivered over to the 
Austrian authorities. 

On tlie arrival of Huger at Olmutz, he was carried 
before Count Archo, tlie Military Commandant of the 
City, a veteran of high respectability, who conducted 
himself, during the examination, with gentleness and 



102 



IIUGER. 



humanity, but after some inquiries, delivered him over 
to the Civil Authority. 

Three days after this, chained hand and foot, the 
dauntless enthusiast was again brought before the 
Commandant and Civil Officer, to be further interro- 
gated. The temper and disposition towards him, 
seemed now essentially changed. 

The Civil Officer, this day, took the lead in the 
examination ; and when Huger complained with strong 
expressions of indignation, of his treatment, the Judge 
imperiously demanded — " Know you, sir, the forfeit 
of your conduct ? An answer being returned in the 
negative, he very solemnly and impressively replied — 
" Your life !" But, apparently in order to remove the 
impression that such a sentence was calculated to pro- 
duce. Count Archo immediately turned the discourse 
into a panegyric upon the Emperor, telling him, that 
his youth, his motives, and conduct, could not but 
secure his clemency. " Clemency," said Huger ; 
how can I expect it from a man, who did not act even 
with justice, towards La Fayette." A check was 
immediately given to the boldness of the prisoner, and 
Count Archo then mildly added — " I judge of others 
from my own feelings. The attempt to injure me I 
freely forgive ; and if ever 1 shall need a friend, I wish 
that friend may be an American." 

Count ^Arciio's entire conduct, was probably in- 
tended, not only to encourage hope in the prisoner, 
but to beget some consideration for him, and to give 
him consequence in the eyes of the Civil Officer, 
which might induce him to treat him better, and with 
greater respect than he had at first seemed inclined to 
do. And it certaitdy had its effect. Yet, with what 
shadow of excuse can the conduct of the Emperor be 
palliated ? A heart, i)ossessed of any claim to ge- 
nerous feeling, or capable of justly appreciating the 
enthusiasm of disinterested friendship, would have 



HUGER. 1Q3 

spurned the idea of treating with rigour, an intrepid 
youti), whose generous ardour, in a cause that he 
idolized, constituted the only crime alleged against 
him. But chains — a dungeon — restrictions both in 
food and clotiiing, were imposed by the imperious fiat 
ol power, and his suiferings regarded with an apathy 
degrading to the ciiaracter of man. Yet, the ardent 
spirit that gave birth to enterprise, did not, under 
such appalling circumstances, forsake him. His mind 
was at i)eace with itself, and his fortitude remained 
unshaken. 

During a long and rigorous confinement, Hope 
embellished the anticipations of more propitious for- 
tunes, and constancy enabled him, with firmness, to 
sui)port the immediate goadings and pressure of cala- 
mity. Restored at last to freedom, he sought his 
native country — became consi)icuously serviceable in a 
military capacity, and now, in tranquil retirement, 
possesses as much of happiness as domestic felicity, 
and the universal esteem of his fellow-citizens can 
possibly bestow. 



SURVIVORS OF THE REVOLUTION. 



Having presented to my young Countrymen, this brief Narrative of 
the achievements of their ancestors, and of the patriotism of the 

dead, 

" By all their countrj^'s wishes blest," 

would it not be blameable, to withhold the tribute of applause 
from the living, who honoured in early life, v/ith the love and 
confidence of their Country, give now to the world, in the vale of 
years, examples of every patriotic virtue, that can evince their 
devotion to it. 



GENERAL C. C. PINCKNEY. 

Very early after his appointment, to command a 
company in the 1st Continental Regiment of his na- 
tive State, Captain C. C. Pinckney was sent into 
North Carolina to recruit. He had scarcely esta- 
blished himself in quarters at Nevvbern, when two 
persons arrived there as settlers, very evidently, both 
from personal appearance, and easy address, of supe- 
rior rank and qualifications. The one was advanced 
in years ; the other appeared in the bloom and vigour 
of life. Captain Pinckney immediately recollected, 
that an intercepted letter from General Gage to Gov- 
ernor Martin (which, as a member of the Secret Com- 
mittee, he had read previously to his departure from 
Charleston,) assured him, " That a Highland Officer 



PINCKNEY. 105 

of ability, well calculated to conduct an enterprise 
successfully, would speedily appear in his province ; 
and earnestly intreated him, till such a person should 
produce his credentials, and to his entire satisfaction, 
make himself known as a zealous Loyalist, that he 
would use his utmost endeavours to keep the Scotch 
emigrants quiet, lest, by premature insurrection, they 
might blight the existing hope, and favourable prospect 
of a counter Revolution." Conviction, struck forcibly 
on the mind of Captain Pinckney, that one of the 
persons who had attracted his attention, was the very 
individual alluded to in the letter of General Gage — 
the other, his assistant and councellor. He, accord- 
ingly, repaired to the Committee of Public Safety, 
and having stated his reasons for believing, that the 
strangers were hostile to the views and interests of the 
country, demanded their arrest. Hostility was, as 
yet, but in its dawn — Aggression, on the one part, had 
not excited inflexible resentment on the other. The 
Members of the Committee were timid, and declined 
interfering, choosing rather to run the risk of a great 
evil, than do an act that might be found unjust and 
op[)ressive. *' Besides," (it was alleged by one of 
them) " the intercepted letter spoke but of one, and 
here are two persons equally liable to suspicions." " I 
would recommend the arrest of both of them," re- 
plied Captain Pinckney. '* Prudence demands it. 
The age of the one proclaims him the Monitor to 
advise ; the vigour and activity of the other, the Lea- 
der to execute." ** It is enough," it was replied, 
" that we allow you to recruit. We cannot any fur- 
ther, while yet a glimmering prospect remains of 
reconciliation, oppose the Royal authority." *' Then, 
gentlemen," rejoined the Captain, " prepare for the 
consequences." 

The event very speedily evinced the clear and ac- 
curate perceptions of Captain Pincknev. The stran- 

14 



106 PINCKNEY. 

gers repaired to Cross Creek, and speedily exciting 
the Countrymen to arm in support of the Royal Gov- 
ernment, appeared at the head of a very formidable 
force. General Moore immediately marched against 
them. McDonald, the Chief, was intrusted by Go- 
vernor Martin, with the supreme command, and 
justified the high opinion entertained of his courage 
and activity ; but, the veteran WLeod, his associate, 
being killed, and many other Officers of his party, his 
nun abandoned him, and he was compelled to surren- 
der himself a prisoner. 

After the repulse of the British Fleet at Sullivan's 
Island, little prospect appearing of immediate hos- 
tilities in the South, the anxiety of Colonel C. C. 
Pinckney, (now advanced to the command of the 1st 
Regiment) to serve his country, and to acquire an in- 
crease of military knowledge, induced him to join the 
army in the vicinity of Philadelphia : There he was 
immediately received into the family of the Com- 
mander in Chief, and appointed his Aid-de-Camp. 
In this capacity, he was present at the battles of 
Brandywine and Germantovvn, and by his intelli- 
gence, zeal, and activity, so successfully won the con- 
fidence of Washine^ton, as to be honoured by him 
afterwards, both in the field and in the diplomatic 
corps, with the most distinguished and important ap- 
pointments. 

As soon as danger threatened the South, be returned 
to Carolina ; and on the approach of General Clinton 
to Charleston, was intrusted with the defence of Fort 
Moultrie. Influenced by the recollection of former 
misfortunes, and intent only on gaining the command 
of the Harbour, the British Admiral, profitting by the 
advantage of a favourable breeze, and flowing tide, 
passed the Fort with rai)idity, giving little opportunity 
to the Garrison, to display either courage or skill. 
The disappointment was great, and the hopes of en- 



PINCKNEY. 107 

hancing the reputation of our arms was completely 
frustrated. To remain an idle spectator of the siege, 
was to a soldier of enterprise, ardent in the pursuit of 
liis country's glory, altogether impossible. He has- 
tened with a part of the Garrison, to the post of dan- 
ger : and so long as a cheering ray of hope encouraged 
resistance, offered an animating example of courage 
and of constancy. At the Council of War, summoned 
during the siege, to deliberate on the propriety of sur- 
rendering the City to the enemy. Colonel C. C. Pinck- 
ney delivered his opinion to this effect : — '' I will not 
say, that if the enemy attempt to carry our lines by 
storm, that we shall be able to resist suscessfully ; but 
am convinced, that we shall so cripple the army before 
us, that although we may not live to enjoy the benefits 
ourselves, yet to the United States they will prove 
incalculably great. Considerations of self, are out of 
the question. They cannot influence any member of 
this Council. My voice is for rejecting all terms of 
capitulation, and for continuing hostilities to the last 
extremity." 

The battle of Bunker's Hill, and the more recent 
and brilliant victory at iNew Orleans, show how cor- 
rect the views of Colonel Pinckney, and prove, how 
completely militia can cripple, or destroy the most 
veteran troojis, when sheltered (however slightly) be- 
hind entrenchments, which, to them, supply the place 
of discipline. 

Captmed in Charleston, and a prisoner till the con- 
clusion of the war, no further opportunity was afforded 
to Colonel Pinckney, of serving his country in the 
field. 

An effort while yet in durance, in the cause of hu- 
manity, must not be passed over in silence. Major 
Hyrne, the Commissioner sent by General Greene 
into Charleston, for the i)urpose of negotiating an ex- 
change of prisoners, indignant at the iiarsh treatment 



101 PINCKNEY. 

shown to Colonel Hayne, and anxious to prevent the 
infliction of the penalties denounced against him, pro- 
posed to Colonel Balfour, that the circumstances of 
his case should be discussed by Colonel C. C. Pinck- 
ney of the American Army, and Major Barry of the 
British Forces, intelligent Officers, at that period 
engaged in settling some points of controversy betwixt 
the contending parties. This being assented to by 
Colonel Balfour, Major Barry, who probnbly thought, 
that an American Officer knew just as little of the 
Law of Nations, as of the Doctrines of Confucius, 
boldly quoted the opinions of Grotius, as decidedly 
favourable to, and supporting the justice of the Bri- 
tish proceedings ; which being instantaneously declared 
incorrect by Colonel Pinckney, who averred, that the 
sentiments of that great man were in direct opposition 
to the statement made by Major Barry, reference was 
made to the author — whose works being produced by 
Colonel C. C. Pinckney, Major Barry was compelled 
to confess, that he was in error, lamenting — '* That 
he had not studied the passage with his usual accu- 
racy." Grotius, however, was no longer his oracle — 
it was indeed farcical to have named him, for he well 
knew the resolve of Lord Rawdon, and that the Laws 
of the Medes and Persians, were not more immutable 
than his fiat, once pronounced. 

As a Member of the enlightened Assembly which 
framed the Constitution of the United States, he 
assisted in forming our present Government, and after- 
wards in the State Convention, by the force of his 
reasoning, and clear demonstration of its excellencies, 
contributed amply to its adoption, by a considerable 
majority. 

In 1794, his firm opposition to the arrogance of the 
French Directory, demanding Tribute as the price of 
Peace, obtained for him, the universal applause of his 
country ; nor can it be forgotten, while the hallowed 



PINCKNEY. 109 

Standard, raised at the construction of the Lines for 
the defence of Charleston, on the Pinckney Redoubt, 
proclaims the cherished sentiment of America — " Mil- 
lions for defence, hut not a cent for tribute,'^'' 

Another trait of character, exhibited at a later 
period, I cannot withhold from view. An Officer of 
rank, talent, and distinguished military services, having 
been nominated in 1794, to a command inferior to 
General Hamilton's, indignantly exclaimed — " Though 
my salvation depended on it, I would spurn the Com- 
mission, rather than serve under a man whom I had 
once commanded." When General C. C. Pinckney, 
on his return from France, was informed that General 
Hamilton, his junior in rank, had been placed above 
him, by the nomination of General Washington, in the 
true spirit of patriotism, he replied — " I am confident 
that the Commander in Chief had sufficient reasons for 
this preference. Let us first dispose of our enemies — 
we shall then have leisure to settle the question of 
rank." 

It is a due tribute to the disinterestedness that I 
venerate, that I record one other occurrence of i)ecu- 
liar interest. It is a fact well understood, that at the 
period of the struggle of party, relative to the nomi- 
nation of a President of the United States, in the 
year 1800, that General C. C. Pinckney, by consenting 
to unite his name with that of Mr. Jefferson, would 
have secured to himself, the unanimous vote of the 
Electors of South Carolina. But, consistent with his 
decided principles, such an association could not be 
entered into ; and to relinquish them, satisfied as he 
was of their purity and correctness, with a view to 
self-agrandizement, would have evinced a duplicity 
altogether repulsive to his nature. The scheme of 
union was, accordingly, dropped. The contest took 
place, and the dignity aspired to was obtained by Mr. 
Jefferson. The Ex-President Adams, wTiting to Gen- 



J 10 pmCKNEY. 

eral Gadsden on the occasion, thus expresses himself — 
*' I have been well informed of the frank, candid, and 
honourable conduct of General C. C\ Pinckney at 
your State I^lection, which was conformable to the 
whole tenor of his actions through life, as far as they 
have come to my knowledge." 



GENERAL THOMAS PINCKNEY. 

ArpoiNTED by the Society of the Cincinnati of 
South Carolina, at the commencement of the late war 
with Great Britain, to declare their satisfaction on the 
nomination of their President, General Thomas Pinck- 
ney, to the command of the Army of the South, it was 
particularly grateful to me to find, that the sentiments 
then expressed, were greeted with the perfect appro- 
bation of the public. The sketch of his character, 
which I shall now present, will, I trust, be received 
with equal favour, since more particular traits are given 
of his military career, and details of achievements 
that, in a high degree, exalt his claim to applause. 

Pursuing his studies in Europe, previous to the Re- 
volutionary War, the dawn of hostility towards his 
country no sooner appeared, than renouncing his pro- 
fessional, pursuits, his whole attention w^as given to 
the acquisition of military knowledge, and so rapid was 
his proficiency, that the rudiments of discipline were 
first taught by him to the infantry of the South 
Carolina line. A mutiny among the troops, at an 
early i)eriod of the war, afforded an opi)ortunity of 
manifesting that firmness and decision, so charac- 
teristic of him as a Soldier. Persuasion having been 
first employed, without avail, while other Officers in- 



PINCKNEY. Ill 

dulffed in menaces and upbraidings, Major Pinckney, 
unavved by their threats, and regardless of personal 
safrty, walked deliberately into the midst of the mu- 
tineers, and with a blow of his sabre cut down the 
ringleader. The effect was instantaneous — the cry 
for pardon was universal, and the order to disperse, 
obeyed without a murmur. 

At the battle of Stono, his exertions, as second in 
command of the light infantry under Colonel Hender- 
son, gained him the highest applause. Two com- 
panies of the 71st Regiment, the elites of the British 
Army, sallying out from their redoubts to support their 
pickets, were eagerly charged with the bayonet, and 
so completely routed, that nine only of their number 
retiuned within their lines. The credit of the corps was 
still further increased, by the bravery with which they 
covered the retreat of the army, enabling General 
Lincoln, not only to maintain order, but to carry off 
his wounded without loss. 

At the attack at Savannah, he headed an assailing 
column of the Continental Army, and actually 
mounted one of the British Redoubts, but was com- 
pelled, after sustaining considerable loss, reluctantly to 
retire. 

In the account given of the suppression of the 
mutiny in his regiment, there appears sufficient evi- 
dence of his firmness and decision. No trait of his 
character more highly entitles him to admiration, than 
the inflexible steadiness of his temper. The com- 
posure of his mind was never rufiled, either by the 
threatening of immediate danger, or pressure of con- 
tinued misfortune. I was informed by my respected 
friend Colonel D^ Oyley ^ thcii while with Major Pinck- 
ney, superintending the construction of a redoubt at 
the siege of Savannah, a shell from the enemy fell 
into the ditch, and burst so near them, that the earth 
was thrown with violence over them both, and in such 



112 PINCKNEY. 

a manner, as completely to blind them, when the 
Major, without changing his position, or showing 
the slightest discomposure, calmly said — " I think, 
D'Oyley, that must have been very near us;" and 
continued, with great animation, to encourage the 
workmen to complete their labours. I state on the 
same authority, that at this disastrous siege, when the 
assailing column which he led was repulsed, and a 
retreat ordered, some confusion arising from the desire 
of the van, to press forward and get out of the reach 
of a heavy and destructive fire, by which they were 
greatly incommoded. Major Pinckney hastening into 
the front, commanded an immediate halt. '' Success, 
my brave fellows," he exclaimed, " though richly 
merited, has not crowned your exertions ; yet, do not 
disgrace yourselves by precipitate flight ; and though 
repulsed, quit the field like Soldiers." The effect of 
this address was instantaneously perceptible. Order 
was immediately restored, and the regiment, with de- 
liberate step, regained their encampments. 

At the disastrous battle of Camden, while acting as 
Aid-de-Camp to General Gates, he was desperately 
wounded and made a prisoner. His patience and for- 
titude remained unshaken. Conveyed into the town, 
it was night when he reached Mrs. Clmfs house (then 
by the fiat of power, converted into a Hospital.) The 
family had retired, and Major Pinckney was placed on a 
table in the piazza, where he lay till morning, suffering 
under a compound fracture of both bones of his leg, as 
he would not permit the rest of an oppressed and patriotic 
female to be disturbed. This calm and happy temper of 
mind, contributed in no small degree to the preser- 
vation of his life, for an exfoliation of the broken 
bones following soon after his removal to quarters, 
and no surgical aid at hand, he was obliged to direct 
the dressing of his wound, and to point out to his 
anxious and intrepid wife, the splinters that occasioned 



PINCKNEY. 113 

the greatest agony, while with tenderness she removed 
them. The trial was, indeed, a severe one, to a lady 
of uncommon sensibility ; but there is no exertion to 
which the female heart, under the influence of its 
affections, is not equal. The duty performed, the for- 
titude of Mrs. Pinckney was no more ; her emotion, 
on seeing her husband's sufferings, so totally over- 
powered her, that she fainted and fell. The recollec- 
tion of such tender and heroic conduct cannot be lost ; 
it must ever command the admiration of the w^orld, 
and to her sex, afford a fascinating example for 
imitation. 

The Embassies of Major Pinckney, both in England 
and Spain, give ample proof, that the intrepid Soldier 
was an able negotiator ; while the flattering reception 
he met with, on his return to his native country, 
evinced the continued affection of his fellow-citizens.* 
He was shortly after elected to Congress, and there 
his talents alvvaj^s commanded the most respectful 
attention. 

It is little known, but certainly worthy to be record- 
ed, that during our negotiation with France in 1798, 
when the dispatches of our Envoys, Generals Pinckney, 
Marshall, and Mr. E. Gerry, reached the United States, 
detailing the hostility of the Directory, and the humi- 
liating proposition of tribute. President Adams, appre- 
hending, that their immediate publication might 
occasion further indignities to be offered to those gen- 
tlemen, still remaining in Paris, wished to withhold 
them for a time from public view. On consulting 
Major Pinckney, he gave a decided opinion, that they 
ought immediately to be made public, that the people 
might obtain a perfect knowledge of the insulting 
conduct of the French Directory. "And, sir," he 
feelingly added, " if the situation of my brother causes 

* His fellow-citizens took the horses from his carriage, and dragged him in 
it, amidst loud plaudits, to the place of his residence. 

15 



114 PINCKNEY. 

you to hesitate, I speak for him, as I know he would 
for me, were I similarly circumstanced. The glory of 
our country is at stake. Individual sufferings must 
not be regarded. Be the event what it may, life is 
nothing compared with the honour of America." 

During the late war with Great Britain, he com- 
manded the Southern Army, and his utmost efforts 
were unremittiuijly employed, in the first instance, to 
perfect the discipline of the troops, to give them a con- 
fidence in themselves, and an ardent desire for fame ; 
and in the second place, to secure our Coasts and 
Cities by fortifications, at those points the most exposed 
to the enemy. The Indian War, brought to a speedy 
termination under his auspices, gives the best testimony 
of the wisdom of his measures. Before he assumed 
the command, victories were gained without the acqui- 
sition of permanent advantage, and triumph invariably 
followed by precipitate retreat. The want of means 
to maintain the superiority acquired, imperiously called 
for its relinquishment ; but, by establishing Military 
Posts, with depots of provisions, arms, and ammu- 
nition, security was given to conquest, and no aban- 
donment of the territory subdued, was ever after 
necessary. His ready discernment of the talents of 
General Jackson, who, at a very early period, was 
pointed out to the Executive as an Officer, in the high- 
est degree, meriting the confidence of Government, 
has proved of incalculable advantage to his country, 
while the happy employment of them, by increasing 
his ardour for enterprise, and skill in turning, to profit 
every possible advantage, led to one of the most bril- 
liant victories that ever adorned the annals of the 
world. 



JACKSON. 116 



GENERAL JACKSON. 

It is impossible for me to name this distinguished 
character, without offering to his merits, the tribute of 
applause so justly their due. Carolina proudly num- 
bers him among her Sons. I'he world allow him a 
degree of excellence, rarely attained, and never 
surpassed by the military characters of the highest 
celebrity. To speak of him with enthusiasm, is con- 
sistent both with justice and duty. My object, in giving 
publicity to the Anecdotes I would record, is, avow- 
edly, to honour the Fathers of our Revolution, and to 
excite that emulation in their descendants, to imitate 
their example, that will best secure the benefits re- 
sulting from their valour, and their virtues. 

General Jackson, at a very early period of life, 
aspired to obtain celebrity. At the age of fourteen, 
he commenced his military career, and shared the 
glory of the well-fought action at Stono. Made a 
prisoner in his native settlement at the Waxaws, 
shortly after the surrender of Charleston, his manly 
opposition to the orders of an unfeeling tyrant, who 
wished to impose on him the duties of a hireling, gave 
superior claims to applause. Wounds were inflicted, 
and increase given to persecution, but without effecting 
either the steadiness of his principles, or firmness of 
his resolution. He told his oppressor — " You may 
destroy, but can never bend me to submission."* 

Pre-eminently distinguished by services of a later 
period, there is an emanation of glory, giving bril- 
liancy to his achievements, which renders him pecu- 

•* The severity of his treatment, arose from his refusal to obey an Officer who 
ordered liim to clean his boots The spirit of the youth, which ought to have 
sailed forth applause, excited no sentiment, but that of unbridled r«sentineHf . 



ne JACKSON. 

liarly the object of admiration. Of the prudence of 
his conduct, and ardour of his intrepidity, when placed 
in command, I consider it altogether unnecessary to 
speak, as they transcend all praise. But, there are 
traits in his character, which, though hitherto but little 
noticed, should be mora particularly detailed, and 
brought into view. He has, in all his conversations, 
and on every occasion, appeared a stranger to the 
arrogance too frequently resulting from success, nor 
been tempted by it, to deny his obligations to the Com- 
mander in Chief, of whom he ever speaks with warm 
affection, candidly acknowledging, that to a steady 
adherence to his well arranged plans, and able advice, 
is greatly to be attributed, the success that brought the 
war to so speedy, and happy a termination. But, for 
no part of his conduct do I consider him more entitled 
to praise, than for his steadiness in resisting the recom- 
mendation of Governor Blount, in the campaign of 
1813, who advised him to discharge a part of his 
force, quit ihe country he had subdued, and to retire 
for security to the settlements. The Governor hesi- 
tated with regard to the exertions of power, and feared 
reproach in enforcing orders, wfiich, when given, had 
been altogether neglected, or disobeyed. I admire 
the manly reply of General Jackson ! 1 admire the 
Republican feeling that laid aside all the formalities of 
ceremony, and taught him, in the firm language of 
truth, to say to the Governor — " If you would pre- 
serve your reputation, you must take a determined 
course, regardless of the applause or censure of the 
populace, and of the forebodings of that dastardly and 
designing crew, who, at a time like this, continually 
clamour in your ears. The very wretches who now 
beset you with evil council, will be the first, should 
the measure which they recommend, eventuate in 
disaster, to call down implications on your head, and 
load you with reproaches^ Your country is in danger; 



JACKSON. 117 

apply its resources to its defence ! Can any course be 
more plain ? There are times v/hen it is highly cri- 
minal to shrink from responsibility, or scruple about 
the exercise of our powers. There are times when 
we must disregard punctilious etiquette, and think 
only of serving our country. The Commander in 
Chief, GenerLl Pinckney, supposes me prepared for 
renewed operations. Shall I violate the orders of my 
superior Officer, and evince a willingness to defeat the 
purposes of my Government ? Shall I abandon a 
conquest thus far made, and deliver up the friendly 
Creeks and Cherokees, who, relying on our protec- 
tion, have espoused our cause, and aided us with their 
arms ? What ! retrograde under such circumstances ? 
I will perish first ! I will do my duty — I will hold 
the posts that I have established, until ordered to 
abandon them by the Commanding General, or die in 
the struggle ! I would not seek to preserve life at the 
expense of reputation ! What then is to be done ? 
I will tell you what ! You have only to act with the 
energy and decision that the crisis demands, and all 
will be well! Send me a force engaged for six months, 
and I will answer for the result ; but, withhold it, and 
all is lost — the reputation of the State, and yours, and 
mine along with it.'' 

This was, indeed, the language of a patriotic heart ; 
nor did he sw^erve from it, but nobly persisting in his 
resolution — fought — was victorious, and gloriously 
terminated the Indian War. Yet, in how much higher 
a degree must his resentments have been excited, and 
patience tortured, when, at a later period on his 
approach to Orleans, where he was appointed to com- 
mand, the Governor informed him — " That the Legis- 
lature, instead of discharging with alacrity, diligence, 
and good faith, the duties which had been confided to 
them by th^;ir constituents, had, under the garb of 
privilege, endeavoured to mar the execution of mea- 



113 JACKSON. 

sures the most salutary for the defence of the coun- 
try." And when he found, that on a requisition for 
their services, the militia resolutely resisted the call to 
rise in its defence, his indignation was roused to the 
highest pitch ; and feeling conviction, that without a 
change of system, and the adoption of measures, ener- 
getic in proportion to the danger which threatened, 
that the country could not be saved, he promptly, 
and with decision, proclaimed Martial Law, calling on 
every individual, under the threat of the heaviest 
penalties in case of refusal, to step forward and defend 
his country. " He thought, at such a moment, (a 
powerful, ambitious, and enterprising enemy ready to 
invade the soil) constitutional forms should be sus- 
pended for the preservation of constitutional rights; 
and that there could be no question, whether it was 
better to depart for a moment, from the enjoyment of 
our dearest priviliges, or have them wrested from us 
for ever." It is not for me to detail the discussions 
which follo\ved, nor the irritation eventuating from 
them, betwixt the civil and military power. I look to 
results. Disaffection was paralized. The spirit of 
the Commander was communicated to every division 
of the army. Hope and confidence animated every 
bosom. General Jackson knew, as he himself ex- 
pressed it — " That he possessed the best defence, a 
rampart of high-minded and brave men." He knew, 
that his well-tried troops were equal to the most 
daring enterprises; and that the less experienced levies 
were ambitious to emulate their glory. He led them 
to action with success, and when in turn assailed, 
defended his lines witli a degree of skill, and display 
of intrepidity, that addrd a victory to the annals of 
his country, that will, ro the end of time, do it honour, 
while it exalts his name to immortality. The blessings 
of a grateful nation, are the reward of Jackson. 



JACKSON. 119 

It may, perhaps, be ronsidered as a departure from 
my original plan, to sive the details of an action of a 
recent date. But, the battle of the 23d of December, 
1814, fought at night before New Orleans, appears to 
me so highly characteristic of the clear perceptions 
and intrepidity of General Jackson, and of such mo- 
mentous importance, by its influence on subsequent 
events, that I shall present it as communicated to me, 
by the gallant Lieutenant Colonel llayne, whose ser- 
vices on that, and every other occasion, cannot be too 
highly commended. 



A brief account of the battle that took place before Neio Orleans^ 
on the night of the 23d December, 1814, loritten by Colonel 
Arthur P. Hayne, at the particular request of Major General 
Andrew Jackson. 

About 2 o'clock, P. M. on Saturda}^, the 23d of December, 
1814, his Excellency the Commander in Chief, was informed by 
Major Tat AM, that the enemy had effected a landing at the extreme 
point of Villery's canal, and from thence had reached the left bank of 
the Mississippi, six miles below the city of New Orleans. The 
Commander in Chief, with much foresight, had anticipated the pro- 
bability of an attack from that quarter, and had, but one hour before, 
ordered five hundred men, under the command of Inspector General 
Hayne, to take post on Villery's Canal. Major Tat am and Mr. 
Latour, had been ordered to precede this command, for the purpose 
of reconnoitermg. They were in the execution of this order, when 
to their astonishment, and that of the whole country, they found the 
British in the possession of the left bank of the Mississippi, only six 
miles below the City. In conformity with previous arrangements, 
and with which commandants of corps were made acquahited, sig- 
nal guns were fired, and all the troops of the different cantonments 
were placed under arms, and ready to move against the enemy. The 
Commander in Chief, whose firmness iji danger, and promptness in 



120 



JACKSON. 



oxecutlon, eminently distingush him, with a calmness and intrepidity 
which all must rcmembei, determined to meet the enemy. 

But he was well aware, from the manner in which his army was 
cantoned, that the City might be surprised before he was able to con- 
centrate his forces. In order, therefore, to frustrate such an event, 
he determined to push the light troops in advance. These troops 
consisted of the Mississippi dragoons, and two companies of rifle- . 
men.* He had orders to proceed forthwith against the enemy, to 
reconnoitre his position, ascertain his strength, and if possible, to 
check his advance, so as to enable the Commander in Chief to collect 
and concentrate his forces. This duty was promptly performed, and 
without meeting with any opposition. It was supposed, that the 
enemy's forces amounted to two thousand men, and a report to that 
effect was made to the Commander in Chief. The troops in ad- 
vance then halted within a short distance of the enemy, and were 
joined by the main body of the arm}', a little after sunset. It was 
about tliis time that the order for battle was given, and the plan of 
attack explained. Commodore Patterson and Captain Henly 
were directed to drop down the River with the schooner Caroliney 
come to anchor opposite the enemy's position, and at half-past seven 
o'clock, to bring on the action. The main army, under the imme- 
diate direction of the Commander in Chief, was to attack him in 
front at eight o'clock ; and Brigadier General Coffee's mounted 
riflemen, supported by Major Hinds' dragoons, had orders to turn 
his flank and gain his rear. 

The following was the disposition of the main army : — The ad- 
vance guard, led on by Lieutenant PvI'Clelland, had orders to 
proceed in as wide a column as the road would admit, and 
to attack the enemy's main picket, which was only three hun- 
dred yards in advance. He was also charged to make his men 
reserve their fire, to wait that of the enemy, and to continue his attack 
for fifteen or twenty minutes, as it would take that time to enable the 
artillery, whose position was immediately in rear of the advance, to 
form battery. After execution of this order, the advance was to 
form in rear of the artillery. 

* " To prevent this, Colonel Hayne, with two companies of riflemen, and 
the Mississippi dragoons, were sent forward, to reconnoitre their camp, leara 
their position, and in the event they were found advancing, to harass and 
oppose them at every step, until the main body should arrive ."-~L?/c of Jack' 
son, p. 287. 



JACKSON. 121 

Our main line was only separated from the advance and the artil- 
lery, by a post and rail fence. It was composed of the 7th and 44th 
reginents of regulars, and Majors Planche's and Daquirs' city 
volunteers. These troops were drawn up in the avenue leading to 
La Rond's house, and had orders to break off by double files, from 
the heads of companies, and in that order to proceed against the 
enemy, dress to the right by the head of the artillery column, and 
thus to advance till our men should come in contact with the enemy. 
The line of battle was then to be promptly formed, by filing upon 
the right of companies. 

The enemy's position was some distance in advance of our line, 
his right towards the swamp, his left resting on the Mississippi, with 
a chain of sentinels very closely posted in front of his camp, sup- 
ported by strong pickets. 

Our arrangements preparatory to action being all complete, and 
every thing ready, at half-past seven o'clock the battle wal^rought on 
by Commodore Patterson and Captain Henly. This attack pro- 
duced a very happy diversion in our favour, causing much confusion 
in the enemy's ranks, and compelling him to throw his whole line 
immediately under the Levee, thereby exposing his right flank to our 
main army, and his rear to Brigadier General Coffee's command. 
At eight o'clock, the main army advanced in line of battle upon the 
right flank of the enemy, causing him to place his army somewhat 
in the form of a crotchet, in order to meet our attack, and still oppose 
the Caroline, At about half-past eight o'clock, Brigadier General 
Coffee's men commenced their attack, taking the enemy in right 
flank and rear, and involving him in much confusion. The firing of 
General Coffee's command was distinctly heard by our men. At 
about nine o'clock, the engagement became general. After an ob- 
stinate conflict of about one hour, the enemy was drawn from all of 
his positions. The heavy smoke occasioned oy excessive fire, and a 
thick fog, induced the Commander in Chief to resume his former 
position, otherwise there can be very little doubt, that we would have 
succeeded in capturing the whole army of the enemy. Our series of 
attacks, in regular succession, had involved their ranks in so much 
confusion, that they were unable to recover themselves. Our loss 
was great, but that of the enemy was much more severe. 

In the midst of Brigadier General Coffee's engagement, Colonel 
Rueben KexMper, a man of sound and vigorous mind, and of un- 
common coolness, courage, and perseverence, found himself almost 

18 



122 JACKSON. 

surroimded by the enemy. Perceiving his perilous situation, and fliat 
his only chance of escape was in stratagem, he exclaimed in an 
audible voice, to a group of the enemy — " What the Devil are you 
doing there ? Where is your regiment ? Come along with me 
immediately !" and they all followed him into the American Imes, 
and were made prisoners. 

Ensign Leach also deserves particular mention. He received a 
severe and dangerous wound through the body, but never quitted hi* 
post till \ictory was secured. He then retired to the City ; but the 
first gim that was fired in tlie lines, recalled him to the post of dan- 
ger, where he remained till the final overthrow of the enemy. 

The Americans engaged in the battle, may be estimated at about 
fifteen Itundred regulars and irregulars ; that of the British at about 
five thousand. 

The Commander in Chief, apprehending a double attack, by way 
of Chef-Mriliteur, directed Major General Carroll to take post on 
the Gentilly road. 

The result of the battle was the saving of New-Orleans. The 
pnde of an arrogant foe was humbled, the first time that he dared to 
profane the soil of Freedom by his hostile tread. It produced con- 
fidence in our ranks, establislied unanimity, and at once crushed dis- 
affection. It is thought to be the most finished battle fought during 
the late war. The ensemhh of the general movement, was main-, 
tuined throughout the whole affair. It was not a mere exertion of 
physical strength, as is often the case ; but in every stage of it, we 
elearly perceive the effects produced by the admirable arrangements- 
of the Commander in Chief; and like Caesar, he might have ex- 
claimed — ^' Vini, vidi, viciP 



CHARACTER AND CONDUCT OF THE OFFICERS OF 
THE LEGION. 



I feel too proud of the partial friendship experienced from my Brother 
Officers of the Legion, not to be ambitious, in some degree, to 
acquit myself of my debt of gratitude, by recording the successes 
resulting from th^ir exemplary good conduct, and the achievements 
that gave to many of them, peculiar claims to celebrity. Where 
merited praise is not bestowed, I can truly aver, that it will not 
proceed from intentional neglect. The title of most of them to 
distinction, has been repeatedly acknowledged by their General, 
and confirmed by the flattering concurrence of their confederates 
in arms. I can only speak particularly of those with whom I was 

. most familiar, and best acquainted. Major John Rudolph, the 
Captains Archer and Hurd, the facetious Captain Carns, bold in 
action, in quarters the delight of his associates ; George Carring- 
TON, Winston, Snowden, Lovell, Power, Harrison, Luns- 
PORD, and Jordan, performed every duty with alacrity, and with 
the highest advantage to the service. 

CAPTAIN JOSEPH EGGLESTON. 

CAVALRY. 

This meritorious Officer was endowed with superior 
powers of mind, but decidedly better qualified to gain 
celebrity in the cabinet, than in the field. He had the 
most perfect knowledge of duty, and was ever prompt 
in its performance ; but the spirit of enterprise parti- 
cularly requisite in a Partisan, was foreign to his 
nature. There occurred, however, one rencontre with 
the enemy, in which he acquired distinction, both for 



124 EGGLESTON. 

talent and intrepidity. On the retreat of the British 
army from Ninety-Six, Lee, knowing that the rich 
settlement South of Fridig's Ferry, could alone afford 
the forage which they would require, determined to 
avail himself of the probable chance of striking a 
blow, which should paralyze every future movement, 
Eggleston was detached for the purpose, to the ex- 
pected scene of action, and choosing an advantageous 
position, anxiously awaited their approach. A party 
of sixty British dragoons, and some for;^ging wagons 
speedily appeared, evidently intending to reach the 
very farm he occupied. The charge was immediately 
sounded. The Legionary Cavalry rushed forward 
with irresisible impetuosity, the enemy were at once 
put to rout, the wagons taken, and forty-five dragoons 
brought off prisoners, without the loss of a single 
man. 

It is painful to state, though the imputation of blame 
rests not on him, that the opportunity of totally des- 
troying the British cavalry at Eataw was lost, by his 
having, from his ardour to perform his duty, obeyed an 
unauthorized order to engage. Foiled, and compelled 
to retire, when summoned to advance by Lee, he was 
too far distant to support Armstrong, who was ready 
to engage, but unequal with a single troop to meet the 
superior force of Coftin. On the day following the 
battle, however, he rendered very essential service, 
charging the retiring enemy, and taking from them 
several wagons containing stores and baggage. On 
this occasion, his horse was killed under him — he 
himself escaping without injury, though five balls 
pierced his clothes and equipments. 

At the conclusion of the war, turning his attention 
to literary pursuits, he was returned a Member of 
Congress, in which respectable body he obtained ap- 
plause and distinction* 



EGGLESTON. 125 

Of warm and impatient temper, while yet in the 
flower of his age, tormented by the irritation of a dis- 
ordered leg, and insisting on amputation, mortification 
ensued, which caused his immediate and untimely 
dissolution. 



CAPTAIN JAMES ARMSTRONG. 

CAVALRY. 

There was no Officer in the service of the United 
States, whose feats of daring intrepidity, had made a 
more salutary impression on the minds of the enemy, 
than those of Armstrong of the Legion. The British 
did justice to his merits ; they admired his valour ; 
they gratefully acknowledged his humanity ; and when 
he, by an accident, became their prisoner, behaved 
towards him with marked and flattering attention. 
Had they displayed the same generous conduct towards 
others, which they exercised towards him, the aspe- 
rities of the war would have been softened, and noth- 
ing heard of those acts of intemperate violence, which 
debased their character as men. 

The details of his achievements are to be met with 
in every history of the war ; it would be superfluous 
again to repeat them. But, one instance of his atten- 
tion to a brave and unfortunate Soldier, has not, in my 
judgment, been sufficiently dwelt upon. Lieutenant 
Colonel Lee was certainly a man of strong prejudices ; 
but, where admiration was excited towards a gallant 
enemy, his generosity was unbounded. Facinated by 
the consummate skill and bravery of Colonel Browne, 
in the defence of his post at Augusta, his resolution 
was immediately fixed, to save him from the fury of 
an exasperated population, and the better to eflectit, 



126 ARMSTRONG. 

put him under the. safeguard of Armstrong, to conduct 
him to Savannah. The precaution was the more 
necessary, as the inveteracy of party, in the neishbour- 
hood of Augusta, had given birth to a war of exter- 
mination, and he saw that without such interposition 
a gallant Soldier, who had committed himself to his 
enemy, on their plighted faith, would otherwise have 
been sacrificed. Colonel Grierson of the British 
militia, had already fallen by an unknown hand ; and 
to have risked a repetition of the crime, would have 
subjected the victorious commanders to merited censure 
and reproach. 

I have often heard the gallant Armstrong declare, 
that he never had, in his own opinion, encountered 
equal peril with that which he experienced on this 
trying occasion. At every turn preparation was made 
for death — in every individual who approached, was 
seen the eager wish to destroy. Resentment was ex- 
cited to the highest pitch, and called aloud to be 
appeased by blood. Yet, by dint of good management, 
by tiie gentleness of persuasion — by forcibly pourtray- 
ing the duty of humanity to a captured and unresisting 
foe, and occasionally well applied threats, he saved the 
contemplated victim, and delivered him in safety to 
his friends in Savannah. 

A remarkable scene is said, by Dr. Ramsay, to have 
occurred on this occasion, which well deserves to be 
recorded, as exemplifying the firmness of a female, 
labouring under the deepest affliction of grief. Passing 
through the settlement where the most wanton waste 
had recently been made by the British, both of lives 
and property, a Mrs. M'Koy, having obtained per- 
mission to speak with Colonel Browne, addressed him 
in words to tiie following effect : — " Colonel Browne, 
in the late day of your prosperity, I visited your 
camp, and on my knees supplicated for the life of my 
son — but you were deaf to ray intreaties ! You 



ARMSTRONG. |27 

hanged him, though a beardless youth, before my face. 
These eyes have seen him scalped by the savages under 
your immediate command, and for no better reason 
than that his name was M'Koy. As you are a pri- 
soner to the leaders of my country, for the present I 
lay aside all thoughts of revenge : but, when you 
resume you sword, I will go five hundred miles ta 
demand satisfaction at the point of it, for the murder 
of my son." 

While Armstrong remained a prisoner, he was treat- 
ed, as I have stated, with distinguished politeness. 
To Colonel Thompson, afterwards Count Rumford, I 
have heard him express great obligation ; and still 
more to Commodore Sweeny, whose attentions were 
such, as none but a generous enemy could have known 
to bestow. I have only to add, that ever high in the 
esteem and affection of his associates, admired and 
respected in every society, he lived beloved, and died 
lamented. m 



CAPTAIN O'lNEAL. 

CAVALRY. 

O'Neal was one of the Officers of the Legion^ 
who rose to rank and consideration by the force of 
extraordinary merit. He entered the army a private 
trooper in Bland's regiment, and was one of a gallant 
band who, when Captain Henry Lee was sur[)rised at 
the Spread-Eagle Tavern, near Philadelphia, reso- 
lutely defended the position against the whole of the 
British cavaliy, and ultimately compelled them to 
retire. Lee, on this occasion, addressing his com- 
panions, and strenuously urging them rather to die 
than surrender, added — " Henceforth, I consider the 
fortune of every individual present, as inseparably 



128 O'NEAL. 

connected with my own ! If we fall, we will fall like 
brothers! If successful in repelling the enemy, (and 
it needs but a trifling exertion of your energies to effect 
it) my fortune and my interest shall be uniformly em- 
ployed to increase your comforts, and secure your 
promotion." Nor did he ever swerve from his pro- 
mise. Appointed, shortly after, with the rank of 
Major, to the command of a corps of horse, O'Neal 
and Winston, another of his faithful adherents, re- 
ceived commissions, and to the last hour of the war, 
by uniform steadiness of conduct, and exemplary 
intrepidity, gained increase of reputation. It was said, 
on this occasion, that Tarleton, making his first essay 
as a military man, but for the accidental snapping of 
O'Neal's carbine, would have fallen a victim to a bold 
effort, which he made to enter by a window at which 
he was posted, the muzzle of the piece being, at the 
time, within a foot of his head. Tarleton behaved 
with great calmness ; for, looking up, he said with a 
smile, " You have missed it, my lad, for this time ;" 
and wheeling his horse, joined his companions, ,vho, 
deceived by a false alarm, were retiring with precipi- 
tation. 



CAPTAIN MICHAEL RUDOLPH. 

INFANTRY. 

There was not, in the Southern Army, an OfKcer 
of the same grade, whose activity and daring spirit 
j)roduced such essential advantages to the service as 
Michael Rudolph; yet, in the page of history he is 
scarcely named. I never knew a man, so strictly in- 
forcing the observance of discipline, who, at the same 
time, maintained so perfect an ascendancy over the 



RUDOLPH. 129 

affections of his men. He was their idol ; and such 
was their confidence in his talents and intrepidity, that 
no enterprise, however hazardous, could be proposed, 
where he was to be the leader, but every individual in 
the regiment became anxious to obtain a preference of 
service. 

His statue was diminitive ; but from the energy of 
liis mind, and personal activity, his powers were 
gigantic. 

Fully to detail his services, is beyond my ability ; 
but that he merited the grateful applause of his coun- 
try, must be allowed, when it is recollected, that he 
led the forlorn hope, when the post at Paulus' Hook, 
in full view of the British Garrison at New York, was 
surprised and carried by Lee ; and that the same peri- 
lous command was assigned him at the storming of the 
Stockade Fort at Ninety-Six; that he bore a pre- 
eminently distinguished part in conducting the sieges 
of the several Forts reduced in the interior country, 
and particularly directed that against Fort Cornwallis 
at Augusta ; that at Guilford his conduct was highly 
applauded, and that he was conspicuous from his ex- 
emplary ardour, leading the charge with the bayonet, 
which broke the British line at Eutaw; that shortly 
previous to the evacuation of Charleston, he, with 
sixteen men, took and burnt the Galley protecting the 
left of the British line at the Quarter House, bringing off 
twenty-six prisoners; and that, finally, about the same 
period, fighting hand to hand, he dismounted and made 
a prisoner of one of the boldest black dragoons em- 
ployed by the enemy. 

Such were the Revolutionary services of the Cap- 
tain, under whose auspices I entered the army, and 
whose virtues were no less estimable than his public 
titility 

At a later period in the war, with the Western In- 
dians, he served with distinguished reputation ; but, 

17 



130 RUDOLPH. 

anxious to provide for an increasing family, he left the 
service to engage in trade, and sailing on a voyage of 
speculation to the West Indies, was heard of no more. 



CAPTAIN HANDY. 

INFANTRY. 

Animated by principles as pure and patriotic, Cap- 
tian Bandy gained distinction by his zealous perform- 
ance of every duty, and the invincible coolness vi'ith 
which he encountered danger. His activity contributed 
very essentially, to the reduction of several of the Forts 
held by the enemy in the interior country, particularly 
that at Augusta, where his vigorous charge on the 
British, who had, by a bold sally, actually possessed 
themselves of the trenches of the besiegers, caused 
their expulsion, and precipitate retreat into their posts, 
from whence they never ventured again. On the re- 
treat of Lord Rawdon from Ninety-Six, while Lee was 
endeavouring to gain his front. Handy, deviating a few 
paces from his command, was seized and carried to a 
distance by a |)arty of banditti^ who robbed him of his 
watch, money, and every article of his clothing, leaving 
him in a state of perfect nudity, to find his way back to 
his party. The appt^llation which 1 have used is not 
too harsh ; the ceremony of a parole was, indeed, in- 
sisted on, and given ; but on application, at an after 
period, to the British commander for the exchange of 
Handy, he candidly acknowledged, that he was not 
known as a prisoner, and that his captors must have 
been a set of lawless marauders, of whom the British 
had no knowledge. Captain Handy, again restored to 
the service, by patient endurance of all the miseries 
and privations of the last campaign, had great influ- 



HANDY. 131 

ence in tranquillizing the minds of men, driven almost 
to desperation by famine and disease. The departure 
of the enemy, at length, closed the scene of calamity. 
Handy led the van of the troops taking possession 
of Charleston, and having the command of the main 
guard, by his arrangement of patrols, and the correct 
conduct of his men, preserved a tranquillity that could 
scarcely have been expected, from Soldiers so long 
deprived of every comfort, who had now a town, rich 
in spoil, and many oi their most implacable enemies, 
altogether within their power. To his credit I can 
assert, that no irregularity was committed — not a 
murmur heard. 



LIEUTENANT PETER JOHNSTON. 

INFANTRY. 

Imbibing, at a very early period of the Revolu- 
tionary war, an enthusiastic attachment to the cause of 
Liberty, and sensible, that the opinions of his father, 
wdiose political creed sanctioned the pretensions of 
Britain, would militate against his ardent ambition to 
serve, Peter Johnson, at the age of sixteen, eloped from 
his College, and avoiding successfully the pursuit of his 
tutors, joined the Legion as a volunteer. His eager- 
ness to acquire military knowledge, and unceasing 
efforts to obtain distinction, very speedily attracted 
attention, and obtained for him, the commission to 
which he aspired, while the whole tenor of his con- 
duct evinced, that it could not have been more judi- 
ciously bestowed. He was brave, enterprising, and 
where duty called, exemplary in its performance. I 
will give no further proof of it, than his intre{)id con- 
duct at the siege of the post at Wright's Bluff, where 



132 JOHNSTON. 

the removal of the abbatis, under the immediate fire 
of the British riflemen, connected with the appalling 
erection of the Mayham Tower, struck the enemy 
with so great a panic, as to cause an instantaneous 
surrender. 

To the end of the war, he still acquired an increase 
of reputation, and so completely gained the favour of 
the parent he had offended, as to be received, on his 
return to the domestic circle of his family, not only 
with affection, but pride. Pursuing the study of the 
Law, he rapidly obtained professional reputation ; and 
now promoted to a seat on the bench of Judges, is 
equally admired for the wisdom and justice of his 
decrees. 



JOHN MIDDLETON, 

CORNET IN THE LEGION. 

Of Middleton, I would speak with justice, equal to 
his merit. It would, indeed, be a sacred duty were I 
competent to perform it. He was ever " the man 
nearest my heart." Brought up together from infancy, 
and united in our progress through life, by ties of the 
most disinterested friendship, he was to me as a bro- 
ther ; and I can with truth assert, that he never 
obtained an honour, nor progressed a step in public 
favour, which did not occasion, in my bosom, a sen- 
sation of delight, as perfect as if the merit had been 
my own. Every attraction that could induce a man 
of less exalted feeling, of patriotism less pure, to re- 
main in England at the commencement of hostilities, 
were held out to him. Wealth, connexion, preferment 
courted his acceptance. A living in the established 
Church, of considerable amount, was his by inheri- 



MIDDLETON. 133 

tance ; but, superior to every selfish consideration, and 
regarding the violated rights of his country, as injuries 
to his own honour, he nobly resolved, by the devotion 
of his life to her service, to become her defender, and 
ward off the exterminating blow, which the resent- 
ments of a merciless administration had denounced 
against her. Quitting Europe, and arriving safely on 
the American shores, he joined the Southern Army, 
and offering himself as a volunteer for promotion, 
speedily exhibited so many instances of gallantry, and 
so great an ardour for enterprise, as to be rewarded 
with a Cornetcy in the Legion. No youthful can- 
didate for fame could ever, with greater success, have 
acquired the admiration of his superiors, the love of 
the troops serving under him, the perfect esteem and 
friendship of his brother Officers. His career was 
short. He but lived to witness the expulsion of the 
enemy from our Capital, when seized by a mortal dis- 
ease, he fell its victim. The regrets of every class of 
the community, affording the highest proof of his 
estimable character, his talents, and his virtues. 



CLEMENT CARRINGTON, 

OF THE LEGION INFAN^TRY. 

Perhaps a more striking instance of the irregular 
action of fear upon the human mind, was never ex- 
hibited than at the battle of Eutaw. Early in the 
action, Mr. Clement Carrington, then a volunteer in 
the Legion, received a wound which incapacitated him 
from advancing with his corps, successfully charging 
the British with the bayonet. He was leaning on his 
spontoon, anxiously regarding the intrepid exertions of 



134 CARRINGTON. 

his companions, when a militiaman, flying from the 
field, appeared immediately in his front, rushing di- 
rectly on him with the blind impetuosity of terror. 
Carrington, finding that he must be overturned, unless 
he could arrest his flight, crossed his spontoon over 
his breast, the more effectually to check his progress, 
and upbraiding his cowardice in an authoritative tone, 
commanded him to halt. The terrors of the fugitive 
were too iiighly excited to suffer control, he snatched 
the weapon opposed to him from the hands of Car- 
rington, and passing the blade of it through his body, 
with redoubled speed ran on. To the satisfaction of 
his friends, the gallant volunteer recovered — was 
speedily commissioned in the Legion, and at the con- 
clusion of the war, applying to the study of the i^aw, 
has since become a distinguished practitioner at the 
bar of Virginia. 



DR. MATTHEW IRVINE. 

It would be difficult to speak with encomitim equal 
to his merit, of this excellent Oflicer. This is no 
flattery ; a cursory review of his services, will afford 
ample proof, that he stands in need of no such aid. 
He commenced his career, in the cause of Liberty, at 
the very dawning of hostilities, being one of that dis- 
tinguished band, who, passing through the wilderness, 
and surmounting difficulties, such as had never before 
been encountered by man, appeared suddenly before 
the lines of Quebec. 

In the Middle States, he served with great distinc- 
tion, being present at every action of consequence in 
the field, and participating in many Partisan enter- 
prises, highly creditable to the American arms. But, 



IRVINE. 135 

it was in the Southern war that he acquired the highest 
distinction, not only performing the duties of his pro- 
fession with consummate skill, and exemplary ten- 
derness and humanity, but frequently serving as an 
ab'e negotiator with the enemy, and constantly em- 
ployed as the confidential agent betwixt the General 
and the Officers, on whose judgment he chiefly relied, 
in all consultations where important measures were 
contemplated, and secrecy regardt^d as essential to 
success. His great fault, if fault it can be called, was 
the too great exposure of his person. Possessing an 
intrepidity that could not be controlled, he was fre- 
quently to be found in the hottest of the fight ; and it 
is w( II known, that he was wounded at Quinby, at 
the head of Armstrong's troop, when his proper sta- 
tion was in the rear of the army. His military ser- 
vices ended, the celebrity he had acquired, as a skilful 
Surgeon and Physician attended him in private life ; 
and it is no exaggeration to say, that he continues the 
practice of his profession, with infinite advantage to 
the i)ublic, and constant increase of his own repu- 
tation. 



DR. SKINNER. 

I HAD, during the last campaign in the South, con- 
tinued" opportunity of witnessing the eccentricities of this 
extraordinary character; but while 1 admired his face- 
tious and entertaining conversation, his exquisite humour, 
and occasional exhibition of sportive or pointed irony, 
I could not but consider him as a very dangerous com- 
panion. Colonel Lee has stated, that he had a dire 
objection to the field of battle, yet in private society 
always ready for a quarrel ; it might be truly asserted, 



136 



SKINNER. 



that it required infinite circumspection not to come to 
points with him, since he really appeared to consider 
tilting as a pleasing pastime, and was (as an Irish 
soldier once said of him) " an honest fellow, just as 
ready to fight as eat." In his regiment, and among 
his intimates, he was regarded as a privileged man, and 
allowed to throw the shafts of his wit with impunity. 
This was a fortunate circumstance, as he would at 
any time rather have risked the loss of his friend, than 
the opportunity of applying a satirical observation in 
point. When first he appeared in the lower country, 
he wore a long beard and huge fur cap, the latter 
through necessity, the first from some superstitious 
notion, the meaning of which it was impossible to 
penetrate. An officer, who really esteemed him, ask- 
ing him " why he suffered his beard to grow to such 
an unusual length," he tartly replied, " It is a secret, 
Sir, betwixt my God and myself, that human imper- 
tinence shall never penetrate." On a night alarm, at 
Ninety-Six, as Colonel Lee was hastening forward to 
ascertain the cause, he met Skinner in full retreat, and 
stopping him, said, *' what is the matter Doctor, whither 
so fast — not frightened, I hope?" "No, Colonel, 
no," replied Skinner, *' not absolutely frightened, 
but, I candidly confess, most damnably alarmed." 
His strong resemblance to the character of Falstaff, 
which Colonel Lee has also noticed, was very remark- 
able. " He was witty himself, and the cause of wit 
in others." Like the fat knight, too, in the calcula- 
tion of chances, not over scrupulous in distinctions 
betwixt meiim and tun7n; and, I should decidedly say, 
in his narrations of broils and battles, too much under 
the influence of Shrewsbury clock. I have seldom met 
with a man more fond of good and dainty cheer, or a 
more devoted idolater of good wine; but when they 
were not to be met with, the plainest food, and most 
simple liquor, were enjoyed with the highest relish. 



SKINNER. 137 

A lady of the lower country, addressing herself to a 
yoiin^ officer who had been much accustomed to enjoy 
every species of luxury, asked, " how he had support- 
ed the privations experienced during the last campaign 
in the interior ?" he replied — " That hunger made a 
simple rasher on the coals, as delicious as the most 
sumptuous fare, and that where wine could not be 
obtained, he relished whiskey." " I am grieved, my 
young friend," said Skinner, with great gravity, " mor- 
tified, beyond expression, to hear such a declaration 
from your lips, since it has long been my opinion, that 
the man who would drink so mean a liquor as whiskey 
would steal." 

In person. Skinner was not unlike the represen- 
tation generally given of Sancho; in his government, 
exhibiting extravagant pretensions to state and self 
consequence. Nor was he insensible to the influences 
of the tender passion. He not only could love, but 
he believed himself possessed of every requisite to in- 
spire passion, particularly priding himself upon a 
roguish leer with the eye, that he deemed irresistible. 
When disencumbered of his beard, he was presented 
at Sandy Hill, (the point of attraction to all the mili- 
tary) to Mrs. Charles Elliott, the amiable and bene- 
volent hostess of the mansion. The facetious Captain 
Cams, who was his friend on the occasion, indulging 
his natural propensity to quiz, pointed her out to 
Skinner, as an object highly worth the attention of a 
man of enteri)rise. The bait was attractive, and he 
bit at it with the eagerness of a hungry gudgeon. 
On his first appearance. Skinner had shown evident 
marks of confusion, on account of the uncouth ap- 
pearance of his cap. Mrs. Elliott had perceived it, 
and retiring for an instant, returned with an elegant 
military hat, which she placed on his head, and grace- 
fully bowing, run off. Skinner was mute with as- 
tonishment — he looked at the hat, and at the lady, 

18 



138 SKINNER. 

and then at the hat again, and turning to his friend^ 
seemed, in the language of FalstafF, to say — 

" Her eye did seem to scorch me like a burning glass." 

The exiiression of his countenance was, to Cams, 
a sufficient indication of the agitation of his boson*. 
The hint was not lost. " Well," he feelinii;ly ex- 
claimed, " if ever a broad and palpable invitation was 
given, this, certainly, may be considered as such ! 
Why, Skinner, what charm, what philter do you use to 
produce such havoc ?" " Fie, fie," said the enrap- 
tured Doctor, adjusting his dress, and rising upon 
tip-toe, " Tempt me not, my friend, to make myself 
ridiculous. Mine is not a figure to attract the atten- 
tion of a fair lady^ — it cannot, cannot happen !" " I 
will not," rejoined Cams, " compliment you. Skinner, 
on your personal attractions. You are a man of sense, 
a man of discernment, too wise to be flattered ; but 
I certainly have seen men less elegantly formed than 
your are, and altogether without that je ne sais qiioi, 
so fascinating, that you pre-eminently possess ; be- 
sides, you have a fine, open, healthy countenance, a 
prepossessing smile, and a prodigiously brilliant and 
piercing eye." " Ah, ha," cried Skinner, '' have you 
discovered that? You are a man of penetration ! A 
man of taste ! Yes, Cams, I have an eye, and if it 
has its usual trick, its tender expression, (you under- 
stand what I would say) I may, perhaps, be happy." 
Cams, for a time, gave indulgence to the effusions of 
his vanity, but would not suffer him to make himself 
completely ridiculous. Love was very speedily for- 
gotten ; and a kind invitation to feel himself at home, 
in the most hospitable mansion in the State, made 
Skinner the proudest and happiest of men. 

Falstaff maintained, that it was proper for every 
man " to labour in his vocation." Skinner asserted, 
*' that every man had his sphere of action, beyond the 
limits of which he ought never to emerge." " Mine," 



SKINNER. 139 

said he, " amidst the tumults of war, the conflicts of 
battle, is in the rear. — There, I am always to be 
found. I am firm at my post. What did Matthew 
Irvine get by quitting his ?* — a wound — a villainous 
wound ! Shall 1 follow his example, step out of my 
sphere, and set myself up as a mark to be shot at ? 

no ! I am a stickler for the strict performance of 
duty, but feel no ambition to shine beyond it. 

Being asked, which of the Ladies of South Caro- 
lina possessed, in his estimation, the greatest attrac- 
tions ? he very readily replied, " The widow Izard 
beyond all comparison. I never pass her magnificent 
sideboard, but the plate seems ready to tumble into my 
pocket." 

Arriving near the bank of the river, on the night of 
the contemplated attack upon John's Island, he was 
asked, whether he intended to pass the ford ? " By 
no means," replied Skinner. " I am not fond of ro- 
mantic enterprise, and will not seek for the perilous 
achievements where the elements, more than the 
enemy, are to be dreaded. The river too is deep, and 
my spirits are not buoyant ; I should sink to a certainty 
and meet a watery grave. Death by water drinking ! 

1 shudder at the thought of it ! I will remain and 
take care of the baggage ; and as many of you as can 
boast a change, may be sure to meet, at your return, 
the comforts of clean linen, and the most cordial wel- 
come that I can give you." 

* After the gallant charge made by Captain Armstrong at Quinby Bridge, 
both himself and his Lieutenant George Carrington, having passed the gap 
made in it by the enemy, Dr. Matthew IRVI^fE put himself at the head of the 
dragoons who had failed in the attempt to cross, and made an entire company 
of the 19th Regiment prisoners, but in the conflict was wounded. 



14Q MANNING. 



LIEUTENANT MANNING, 

AND OCCURRENCES LEADING TO THE DEFEAT OF 
COLONEL FYLE. 

That important consequences have resulted from 
accidental occurrences, and that achievements have 
been attributed to foresifi;ht and judgment, which 
originated in some fortuitous incident, cannot be 
doubted. The following Anecdote may possibly be dis- 
believed by some, yet I must record it as doing honour 
to a fellow-soldier, to whom I was bound by the strict- 
est ties of friendship. No man who knew Manning 
would question his veracity, and from his lips I re- 
ceived it. Nor is it credible, that he would wander 
into the regions of romance to exalt his reputation, 
w^hen by the uniformity of his conduct, he was daily 
adding to the laurels universally acknowledged to be 
his due. I have besides, in my possession, a letter from 
my highly valued friend. Judge Johnson of Abingdon, 
Virginia, at the period of its occurrence, an Officer in 
the Legion, corroborating the principal fact, though 
slightly differing in the detail. With regard to the 
worth and abilities of Manning, his coolness and in- 
trei)idity, our sentiments are the same. His delineation 
of his talents and character I regard as perfect. " I 
never," says the Judge, " knew any man who was 
more remarkable for that quality, which is called pre- 
sence of mind. The more sudden the emergency, the 
greater the danger in which he was unexpectedly 
placed, the more perfect was his self-possession, as 
related to the faculties both of body and mind. In 
corporal vigour and activity, he was exceeded by few ; 
and there was an ardour about him, which charac- 
terised every thing that he said or did. If he had enjoyed 
the advantages of literary culture, he would have been 



MANNING. 141 

as much the object of our admiration every where 
else, as he was in scenes of danger and military ad- 
venture." 

Most of the settlers in North Carolina, in the neigh- 
bourhood of Cross Creek, now Fayetteville, were 
emigrants from Scotland, who had brought with them 
strong prejudices in favour of monarchy. Few among 
them had imbibed the spirit of Liberty, fostered with 
with enthusiasm by almost the entire population in 
their adopted country; but, to the credit of such as 
professed attachment, it must be remembered, that 
having once declared in favour of the cause of Ame- 
rica, none more courageously, zealously, and faithfully 
supported it. To Scotland, we owe many a gallant 
Soldier. No other foreign nation contributed so many 
distinguished Officers in the line of our armies as 
Scotland. The intrepid Mercer sealed his devotion 
to our cause with his blood, and died in battle. Lord 
Sterling, Generals WDougald, Sinclair, Stephens^ 
]\rintosh, and Davie, were among the most gallant 
and strenuous champions of Independence. Knowing 
these facts, it cannot be imagined, that I could ever 
cherish or utter a sentiment injurious to a country to 
which I feel the strongest attachment, and from which 
I am proud to have derived my origin. A country, 
whose sons are brave, and daughters virtuous ; where 
beauty is adorned with its most fascinating perfections, 
and manhood exhibits a vigour and activity that can- 
not be surpassed ; where industry has produced an 
almost incredible influx of wealth, and the energies of 
mind an increase of literary acquirement, that places 
human knowledge on an eminence that it had never 
before attained ; — a country where, as a student in a 
College of celebrity, I, for four successive years, lis- 
tened with delight to the eloquence of the amiable and 
enlightened Miller, teaching, how far more congenial 
to the best feelings of the iieart, and productive of 



142 MANNING. 

happiness to man, is the purity of genuine Republi- 
canism, than any system of government that the world 
has ever known. Where I studied the theory of 
morals, and witnessed the perfection of their practice, 
under the immediate protection and tuition of the 
first of Philosophers, and most virtuous of men, the 
immortal Dr. Thomas Reid. Where Jardine, the 
teacher of Eloquence, honoured me with his friend- 
ship ,* and the liberal kindness of other Professors, of 
the inhabitants of the city, generally, gave birth to 
sentiments of gratitude and affection, that can never 
be effaced. Truly, then, I can assert, that prejudices 
are unknown in the following narrative : 

The intrigues and efforts of Lord Cornwallis, to 
excite insurrection, backed by a very formidable force, 
had produced among the Highland emigrants a spirit 
of revolt, which it required all the energies of General 
Greene to counteract, before it could be matured. — 
The zeal and activity of Lieutenant Colonel Lee, 
whose usefulness exceeded calculation, united to his 
acuteness and happy talent of obtaining intelligence of 
every movement, and of the most secret intentions of 
the enemy, pointed him out as the fittest man for this 
important servico. He was accordingly selected, with 
orders to impede the intercourse of Lord Cornwallis 
with the disaffected ; to repress every symptom of revolt, 
and promptly to cut off every party that should take up 
arms for Britain. Constantly on the alert, and equally 
solicitous to give security to his own command, while 
he harassed the enemy. A secure position was, on 
one occasion, taken near a forked road, one division 
of which led directly to Lord Cornwallis' camp, about 
six miles distant. The ground was chosen in the dusk 
of evening ; and to prevent surprise, patrols of cavalry 
were kept out on each fork during the night. An 
order for a movement before day had been communi- 
cated to every individual, and was executed with so 



MANNLNG. 143 

little noise and confusion, that Lieutenant Manning, 
waking at early dawn, found himself, excepting one 
Soldier, left alone. Stephen Green, the attendant of 
Captain Cams, lay near him, resting on the portman- 
teau of his superior, and buried in profound sleep. 
Being awakened, he was ordered to mount and follow, 
while Manning, hastening towards the fork, hoped to 
fall upon the track, and speedily rejoin his regiment. 
Much rain had fallen during the night, so that, finding 
both roads equally cut up. Manning chose at hazard, 
and took the wrong one. He had not proceeded far, 
before he saw at the door of a log-house, a rifleman 
leaning on his gun, and apparently placed as a centinel. 
Gallopping up to him, he inquired if a regiment of 
horse and body of infantry had passed that way ? 
" Oh, ho," cried the man, (whistling loudly, which 
brought out a dozen others completely armed, and 
carrying each a red rag in his hat,) " you, I suppose, 
are one of Greene's men." The badge which they 
bore, marked their principles. Without the slightest 
indication of alarm, or even hesitation, Manning 
pointed to the portmanteau carried by Green, and 
exclaimed — '' Hush, my good fellow — no clamour for 
God's sake — I have there what will ruin Greene — point 
out the road to Lord Oornwallis' army, for all depends 
upon early intelligence of its contents." '^ You are 
an honest fellow, (was the general cry) and have left 
the rebels just in time, for the whole settlement are 
in arms to join Colonel Pyle to-morrow, (naming the 
place of rendezvous) where Colonel Tarleton w^ill 
meet and conduct us to camp." " Come," said the man, 
to whom he had first spoken, " take a drink — Here's 
confusion to Greene, and success to the King and his 
friends. This is the right road, and you will soon 
reach the army ; or rather let me conduct you to it 
myself." *' Not for the world, my dear fellow," re- 
plied Manning ; " your direction is plain and I can 



]44 MANNING. 

follow it. I will never consent, that a faithful sub- 
ject of his Majesty should be subjected to the dangers 
of captivity or death on my account. If we should fall 
in with a party of rebels, and we cannnot say that they 
are not in the neighbourhood now, we should both 
lose our lives. I should be hanged for desertion, and 
you for aiding me to reach the British army." This 
speech produced the effect he desired. The libation 
concluded, Manning rode off amid the cheers of the 
company, and when out of sight, crossed to the other 
road, and urging his horse to full speed, in a short time 
overtook and communicated the interesting intelli- 
gence to his commander. Lee was then meditating an 
attack upon Tarleton, who had crossed the Haw River 
to support the Insurgents; but, perceiving the vast im- 
I)ortance of crushing the revolt in the bud, he informed 
General Greene of his plan by a confidential messen- 
ger, and hastened to the point of rendezvous, where 
Pyle, with upwards of four hundred men, had already 
arrived. It is unnecessary to detail the sanguinary scene 
which followed. Pyle, completely deceived, and to the 
last believing the Legionary Dragoons the soldiers of 
Tarleton, was overpowered, and, with a considerable 
portion of his force, became victims of credulity. 

It has been remarked, that " severity at first is often 
humanity in the end." Its policy, on this occasion, 
will scarcely be denied. As Lee permitted no pursuit,, 
many escaped, and speading universal alarm, so com- 
pletely crushed the spirit of revolt, that opposition to 
government was put at once and effectually to rest. 
But had the Insurgents been cut off to a man, would 
not the* act have been justified on the score of retalia- 
tion? The provocation would have sanctioned it. To 
Colonel Buford, but a little before, Tarleton had 
refused capitulation. Deaf to the voice of clemency, 
and intent on sh\ughtcr, a charge was made on an un- 
prepared and unresisting foe. His heart was steeled 



MANNING. 145 

against the claims of mercy, and, as Lee has forcibly 
said, "it needed but the Indian war-dance, and roast- 
ing fire, to have placed the tragedy which followed, 
first in the records of torture and death." 

Many other proofs could be adduced of Manning's 
prpsence of mind, and cool intrepidity in action. It is 
grateful to me to mention one of these. At the battle 
of Eutaw, after the British line had been broken, and 
the Old Buffs, a regiment that had boasted of the 
extraordinary feats that they were to perform, were 
running from the field, Manning, in the enthusiasm of 
that valour for which he was so eminently distin- 
guished, sprang forward in pursuit, directing the pla- 
toon which he commanded to follow him. He did 
not cast an eye behind him until he found himself near 
a large brick house, into which the York Volunteers, 
commanded by Cruger, were retiring. The British 
were on all sides of him, and not an American Soldier 
nearer than one hundred and fifty or two hundred 
3^ards. He did not hesitate a moment, but springing 
at an Officer who was near him, seized him by the 
collar, and exclaiming in a harsh tone of voice — 
** Damn you, sir, you are my prisoner," wrested his 
sword from his grasp, dragged him by force from the 
house, and keeping his body as a shield of defence 
from the heavy fire sustained from the windows, car- 
ried him off without receiving any injury. Manning 
has often related, that at the moment when he ex- 
pected that his prisoner would have made an effort for 
liberty, he, with great solemnity, commenced an enu- 
meration of his titles — " I am Sir, Henry Barry, 
Deputy Adjutant General of the British Army, 
Captain in the 52d Regiment, Secretary to the Com- 
mandant of Charleston." " Enough, enough, sir," 
said the victor, " you are just the man I was looking 
for ; fear nothing for your life, you shall screen me 
from danger, and I will take special care of t/ow.'' 

19 



146 MANNING. 

He had retired in this manner some distance from the 
brick house, when he saw Captain Robert Joiett of 
the Virginia line, engaged in single combat with a 
British Officer. They had selected each other for 
battle a little before, the American armed with a broad 
sword, the Briton with a musket and bayonet. As 
they came together, a thrust was made at Joiett, which 
he happily parried, and both dropping their artificial 
weapons, being too much in contact to use them with 
effect, resorted to those with which they had been 
furnished by nature. They were both men of great 
bulk and vigour, and while struggling, each anxious 
to bring his adversary to the ground, a grenadier who 
saw the contest, ran to the assistsnce of his Officer, 
made a longe with his bayonet, missed Joiett's body, 
but drove it beyond the curve into his coat. In 
attempting to withdraw the entangled weapon, he 
threw both the combatants to the ground ; when get- 
ting it free, he raised it deliberately, determined not to 
fail again in his purpose, but to transfix Joiett. It 
was at this crisis that Manning approached — not near 
enough, however, to reach the grenadier with his arm. 
In order to gain time, and to arrest the stroke, he ex- 
claimed in an angry and authoritative tone — " You 
damn'd brute, will you murder the gentleman ?" The 
Soldier, supposing himself addressed by one of his 
own Officers, suspended the contemplated blow, and 
looked around to see the person who had thus spoken 
to him. Before he could recover from the surprise 
with which he had been thrown. Manning, now suffi- 
ciently near, smote him with his sword across the 
eyes, and felled him to the ground ; while Joiett dis- 
engaged himself from his opponent, and snatching up 
the musket, as he attempted to rise, laid him dead by 
a blow from the butt end of it. Manning was of 
inferior size, but strong and remarkably well formed. 
Joiett, literally speaking, a giant. This, probably, 



MANNING. 147 

led Barry, who could not have wished the particulars 
of his capture to be commented on, to reply, when 
asked by his brother Officers, how he came to be 
taken, " I was overpowered by a hu^e Virginian.'** 

The reputation of a Soldier, so highly distinguished 
both for valour and discernment, whose firmness 
enabled him, in all emergencies, to maintain a com- 
posure that neither difficulty nor danger could disturb, 
has caused the honour of giving birth to Manning to 
be claimed both by Ireland and America. If my re- 
collection is accurate, he certainly declared himself a 
native of Carlisle in Pennsylvania. Yet, when I 
remember the general tenor of his conversation — " the 
facility he possessed of involving in obscurity, the 
subject he meant to elucidate" — the accent on his 
tongue — the peculiar turn of his expression — his call- 
ing for example to his servant, walking with naked 
feet over ground covered by a heavy frost — " Shall I 
never teach you discretion. Drone ! — If you will go 
barefoot, why the Devil don't you put on your blue 
stockings." And on another occasion, returning to 
camp, and looking at a bottle of spirits, half emptied^ 
which he had left full — " Speak quickly. Drone, you 
big thief, and tell me what you have done with the 
remainder of my liquor ?" My opinion is staggered, 
and I am inclined to acknowledge the superior claims 
of Ireland. 

* Henry Barry was an eccentric character. He aimed at singularity in 
words as well as actions. He would send " his betfermost kind of compliments" 
to a lady ; and, in a simple flower, present '' the sweetest o( all possible flowers." 
But in nothing was his conduct regarded as so farcical, as in his claim to deli- 
cate and liberal feelings. On one occasion, it has been stated, that reading a 
Poem, of his own composition, on the blessings of Liberty, a gentleman present 
asked him frankly, " How his actions could be so much at variance with the 
principles he professed r" " Because, Sir," he unblushingly replied, " I am a 
Soldier of Fortune, seeking a snug and comfortable establishment. My feelings 
are as delicate as yours, or any other man's ; but I never suflfer myself to be 
humbugged by them." The day at Eutaw was certainly not his fighting day ; 
but he is said to have distinguished himself in India. 



148 MANNING. 

Manning, at the conclusion of the war, married into 
a highly respectable family, and settled in South Caro- 
lina. His attachment to a military life continuing 
unabated, he became a candidate for the appointment 
of Adjutant General of the Militia of the State, ob- 
tained it, and performed the important duties attacheci 
to it, with the applause of the public, till his death. 



SOLDIERS OF THE LEGION. 



Having briefly sketched the characters, and detailed the services ol 
several of the Officers of the Legion, I am confident that I shall 
gratify my readers, by recording a few interesting Anecdotes re- 
lating to the Soldiers of that corps. In proportion as they were 
removed from that rank in society, in which an enlargement of 
ideas, and expansion of mind was to be looked for, must be their 
merit, who, under the exalted influences of military and patfiQtic 
enthusiasm, evinced a nobleness of soul, and chivalric intrepidity, 
increasing their own fame, and giving a higher stamp of celebrity 
to the American character. I fondly hope, that they will be re- 
ceived with cordiality by every patriotic bosom. 

SERGEANT WHALING. 

When the importance of wresting the possession of 
the Stockade Fort at Ninety-Six from the enemy, was 
clearly ascertained, Lieutenant Colonel Lee, to whom 
the charge of directing all operations against it, was 
intrusted by General Greene, adopted (it must be 
acknowledged too hastily) the opinion, that it might 
be effected by fire. Accordingly, Sergeant Whaling, 
a gallant non-commissioned Officer, who had served 
with zeal and fidelity from the commencement of the 
war, and whose period of enlistment would have ex- 
pired in a few days, with twelve privates, were sent 
forward in open day, and over level ground that 
afforded no cover to facilitate their approaches, to 
accomplish this hazardous enterprise. Whaling saw 



150 WHALING. 

with certainty, the death on which he was about to 
rush, but by the prospect of which he was unappalled. 
He dressed himself neatly — took an affectionate but 
cheerful leave of his friends, and with his musket 
swung over his shoulder, and a bundle of blazing pine 
torches in his hand, sprung forward for the object of 
his attack. His alacrity inspired the little band with 
courage. They followed him closely up to the build- 
ing around which the Stockade was erected, before 
the troops within fired a shot. Their aim was deli- 
berate and deadly. But one individual escaped with 
life. Whaling fell deeply lamented by every Officer 
and Soldier of the Legion. Instead of the rash and 
unavailing exposure to which he was subjected, all 
admitted his just claim to promotion — grieved that his 
valuable life was not preserved for those services he 
had so often shown himself so capable of rendering. 
Poor Whaling ! — the Soldier's cherished hope was 
denied him, 

" When all his toils were past, 

" Still to return, and die at home at last." 



SERGEANT MITCHELL. 

It was at Ninety-Six also, that another Soldier of 
distinguished merit lost his life, and unhappily under 
circumstances peculiarly distressing. Captain Michael 
Rudolph commanded the detachment of the infantry on 
duty on the night after the arrival of the Legion from 
Augusta, where the corps had been employed, during 
the early part of the siege of the post now threatened, in 
bringing Colonel Browne, and his command, to terms 
of submission. Sergeant Mitchell went the rounds 
with Rudolph, after having two hours before planted 



MITCHELL. 151 

the centinels at tlieit* posts. Unhappily, among them 
were several militiamen, who had never before seen 
service. One of these, without challenging, fired at the 
relief with which Rudolph and Mitchell were appro:ich- 
ing his position, and shot Mitchell through the body. 
He fell to the ground — told his Captain that he w^s 
mortally wounded — warmly pressed his hand — asked if 
he had ever neglected or omitted any of the duties of 
a faithful Soldier and true Patriot — regretted that he 
had not closed his life on the field of battle, and con- 
juring him to bear evidence, that he died without fear, 
and without a groan, expired ! He was a Virginian 
from the County of Augusta. I fondly hope that this 
tribute to his memory, may reach his friends. Wha- 
ling was a Pennsylvanian. 



BULKLEY AND NEWMAN. 

Among the incidents in the Southern Army, that 
excited the highest interest, was the singular and 
romantic friendship which united two of the most dis- 
tinguished Soldiers of the Legionary Cavalry. Bulkley 
and Newman were natives of Virginia, born in the same 
neighbourhood, and from early infancy united by such 
a congeniality of sentiment, that it almost appeared as 
if one soul gave animation to both. Their attachment 
increased with their years — it strengthened with their 
strength. As school-fellows they w ere inseparable ; 
their task was the same, and he who was first perfect 
in acquiring it, was unhappy till he had impressed it, 
with equal force, on the mind of his friend. When an 
appeal to arms, at the dawn of our Revolution, had 
called forth the youthful heroes of America to fight 
the battles of their country, and defend her violated 



152 BULKLEY AND NEWMAN. 



rights, both, on the same day, and animated with the 
same enthusiastic devotion to lier cause, were enrolled 
in the ranks of her armies. The officers of the Legion, 
who yet survive, can testify, that through all the perils j 
and difficulties of the Southern War, each seemed more 
anxious for the safety and alleviation of the sufferings 
of his friend, than of his own. In action they invaria- 
bly fought side by side ; in the more tranquil scenes of 
encampment, they were constantly engaged in the same 
pursuits; their toils and their pleasures were the same. 
When at Quinby, the memorable charge was made on 
the 19th British Regiment, by the intrepid Armstrong, 
Bulkley and Newman were among the few Dragoons, 
who, having leapt the gap in the bridge, which the 
enemy were industriously attempting to widen, were 
able to support their commander. The display of gal- 
lantry exhibited could not have been surpassed. Arm- 
strong, seconded by George Carrington, his Lieuten- 
ant, his gallant Sergeant Power, the brave Captain 
M'Cauly, of the militia, and less than a dozen of his 
own troopers, actually cut his way through the entire 
regiment, when a heavy and fatally directed fire pro- 
duced a most direful catastrophe. Power fell despe^ 
rately wounded; and the youthful friends, Bulkley and 
Newman, closed their brilliant career in the path of 
glory for ever. Mortally wounded at the same instant^ 
they fell on the same spot, and, with united hands, 
reciprocating kindness to the last, expired. 



CORPORAL COOPER. 

Making a tour to the North, in the year 1817, I 
was invited to visit the Franklin, then lying at Chester, 
in company with the Commodores Murray and Dale, 



COOPER. 153 

and several other officers of distinction. On our pas- 
sage to the ship, some mention beini^ made of Carolina, 
a naval officer present, said, *' I do not believe there 
exists at this day, an individual who has a more perfect 
knowledge of the Southern War of the Revolution than 
myself, particularly, all that relates to the battles fought 
in the Carolinas. I entered those States with the Le- 
gion commanded by Harry Lee, and witnessed the 
conclusion of our toils at the evacuation of Charles- 
ton." '* Under such circumstances, Sir," I immediately 
replied, " it must be my good fortune to be in company 
with an old companion, for I had the honour of hold- 
ing a commission in the infantry of that regiment, and 
was, like yourself, attached to the command which 
took possession of Charleston, when given up by the 
British." " 1 aai, Sir," rejoined the officer, '* alto- 
gether at a loss, even to guess at your name ; nor do I 
recollect ever to have seen you before. Attached to 
the Legion, you must have known Armstrong, who 
commanded the Sorrel Troop, and have probably 
heard of Corporal Cooper^ who belonged to it." " Good 
heavens. Cooper," I exclaimed, with delight, " is it 
you ? I now am astonished at my own forgetful ness, 
for I as thoroughly recognise you as if we had parted 
but yesterday !" I mentioned my name in turn, and 
was happy to find that I was not forgotten by him. I 
am confident that, on this occasion, the sensation of 
delight and good feeling to men who had served and 
suffered together, was strongly experienced by both. 
The surprise and satisfaction of the moment being at 
an end, Cooper, with a significant smile, said, " By the 
by, 1 believe you were one of the officers who sat on 
the court-martial when I was in jeopardy, and brought 
to trial at our encampment, near the Ashley River." 
*' No, Cooper," I replied, " I was not ; though I 
well remember, on another occasion, when we lay 

at M'Pherson's, that, in consequence of your -" 

20 



154 COOPER. 

" Husb, hush, my dear Sir," he exclaimed, " I find 
that you have an excellent and accurate memory, the 
less we say on that subject the better." I had known 
Cooper well ; and it is no exaggeration to assert, that 
a more gallant Soldier never wielded a sabre. The 
character, indeed, of consummate intrepidity, distin- 
guished every individual of Armstrong's troop. Dis- 
ciplined by him, and animated by his example, they 
were invincible. But there were particular traits that 
characterized Cooper, that entitled him to still higher 
commendation. If activity and intelligence were re- 
quisite to obtain information — if gallantry to strike a 
Partisan blow, Cooper was always uppermost in the 
thoughts of Lee. He had a soul for enterprise, and by 
prompt discernment, and a happy facility of calculating 
from appearances of events to happen, of incalculable 
utility to the service. When Armstrong, by the falling 
of his horse, was made a prisoner, and a flag sent out 
from the British Commander to say, that his servant 
and baggage would be expected, as he wished to show 
every civility to an enemy, whose bravery could only 
be exceeded by his generosity to all who fell into his 
power, Cooper w^as immediately directed by Lee, to 
act the part of a domestic, and sent forward for the 
purpose. I mentioned my recollection of the circum- 
stance to Cooper, who replied, " and well I knew my 
Colonel's motives ;" and so perfectly was I disposed 
to second his views, that while taking the refreshment 
which was ordered for me by General Leslie, in the 
front of his quarters near the British lines, I was 
closely examining the course of a creek in his rear, 
by which I flattered myself, I should very speedily be 
able to conduct and introduce him at the Head-Quar- 
ters of our own army." He then went onto say — *' The 
arts used by a Captain Campbell, who tried every 
manner of cajoling, to pick out of my conversation 
intelligence of our force and position, very highly 



COOPER. 155 

amused me. I acted the simpleton's part so naturally, 
that I could clearly perceive, that he believed me com- 
pletely entang;led in his toils. When suddenly chang- 
ing my manner, I gave him such a burlesque and 
exaggerated an account of troops of dragoons and 
regiments of infantry, that had no existence but in my 
own imagination, that perceiving my drift, he angrily 
exclaimed, " Damn you, you rascal, you are too cun- 
ning for me. Here, take a drink of grog and depart." 
I cannot conjecture why it was done ; but finding that 
I was not to be deceived, I think that they might have 
done me the credit to suppose, that I was not to be 
intimidated ; but, instead of conducting me to my 
Captain, I was led to, and shut up in the Provost, 
when looking through the bars, I perceived Armstrong 
passing merrily along with several Naval Officers, who 
seemed to vie with each other in civility to him. My 
situation forbid ceremony, so I called out lustily — 
** Hollo, Captain Armstrong ! pray have the goodness 
to tell me, is it you or / that am a prisoner ?" My 
speech produced an explanation. I was immediately 
released ; and profitting by every occasion to store my 
mind with useful intelligence, in a few days left the 
Garrison, a partial exchange having freed my Captain 
from captivity. My fortunes have since varied very 
much. I have gained nautical information — have 
commanded a ship of my own — have, as a Naval 
Officer, supported the flag of my country — and now 
the war being over, find a snug birth in the Navy Yard. 
My varied life would greatly amuse could 1 detail 
it, more especially, as its constant bustle but ill 
accords with my religious principles ; for, though you 
might not suspect it, whenever my thoughts take a 
serious turn, I am professedly a member of the Society 
of Friends, a genuine homespun Quaker." 



156 ORD. 



Although the expedition against Georgetown, con- 
ducted by General Marion and Lieutenant Colonel 
Lee, was not, from a combination of adverse circum- 
stances, crowned with success. Although the flight of 
a guide, who had engaged to conduct Captain Arm- 
strong and the dragoons of the Legion to a point, 
which would have effectually prevented the British 
Soldiers, who had escaped the Legionary Infantry, 
from rracliing a redoubt that afforded perfect security, 
had given ample grounds for the suspicion of treachery, 
and disconcerted the plans that had promised the most 
perfect triumph ; yet, advantages arose from it of con- 
siderable consequence to the American cause. Colo- 
nel Campbell, the Commandant, was taken, and about 
seventy men either killed or made prisoners. It con- 
vinced the British, that however great the distance by 
which they were removed from their enemy, (the Con- 
tinental Army being, at the period of attack, on the 
borders of North Carolina) that they were still vul- 
nerable, and at every moment subject to attack. It 
checked their marauding, predatory expeditions, gave 
comparative security to the oppressed inhabitants in 
their vicinity, and to themselves, full assurance, that 
to be safe, they must continue inactive, and remain 
within the limits of their Garrison. It is pleasing to 
me, to record the singular gallantry of a most meri- 
torious Soldier, who, on this occasion, gained high 
renown. 

SERGEANT ORD. 

In every instance where this heroic Soldier was 
engaged in action, he not only increased his own repu- 
tation, btU animated those around him by his lively 
courage. In camp, on a march, and in every situa- 



ORD. 157 

tion, he performed all his duties with cheerfulness and 
vivacity, preserving always the most orderly conduct, 
and keeping his arms, accoutrements, and clothing in 
the neatest possible condition. He might, indeed, be 
considered a perfect Soldier. 

At the surprise of Georgetown, being with a small 
party of the Legion Infantry, in possession of aa 
inclosure, surrounding a house from which they had 
expelled the enemy, the recovery of the position was 
sought by a British force, whose leader, approaching 
the gate of entrance, exclaiaied — " Rush on, my brave 
fellows, they are only worthless militia, and have no 
bayonets." Ord immediately placed himself in front 
of the gate, and as they attempted to enter, laid six 
of his enemies, in succession, dead at his feet, crying 
out ac every thrust — " No bayonets here — none at all 
to be sure !" following up his strokes with such rapi- 
dity, that the British party could make no impression,, 
and were compelled to retire. 



PERRY SCOTT. 

There was no Soldier in the Legion Infantry, who 
appeared more completely to have gained the favour of 
Lieutenant Colonel Lee, than Perry Scott. His 
chief merit consisted in his consummate intrepidity, 
and readiness to engage in hardy enterprise. As often 
as a Partisan expedition was in contemplation, he was 
invariably selected as one of the daring spirits to 
insure success. I am tempted to call for the pity of 
his countrymen for his untimely end, from the recol- 
lection, that in all the battles of the South, from the 
junction of the Legion with the army of General 
Greene, till the final retreat of the enemy, he was 



158 SCOTT. 

noticed for distinguished valour and activity. He was 
present at the evacuation of Charleston, and shortly 
after disbanded ; but, devoted to a military life, a^ain 
enlisted with his former commander, Michael Ru- 
dolph, then at the head of a Legionary Corps, under 
the orders of General Harmar, and as Sergeant Major 
acquitted himself with reputation. 

The Indian War terminated, Scott knowing, that 
many of the Officers of the Partisan Legion of Lee, 
and several of his old associates, had settled in Caro- 
lina and Georgia, resolved to visit them, and actually 
reached the Cheraws with that intention. Here, for 
the sake of repose, after a wearisome journey, he took 
up his quarters at a Public House, kept by an old Sol- 
dier, once attached to the volunteers of Ireland, the 
corps commanded by Lord Rawdon. An amicable 
intercourse, for a time, increased the attachment of 
these veterans to each other. Scott eulogized the 
bravery of the Irish, and his companion was lavish in 
his commendation of the Soldiers of the Legion, when 
unluckily drawing comparisons relative to the merits 
of their respective corps, a serious quarrel ensued, 
which they immediately determined to settle by the 
sword. The conflict was maintained with spirit and 
obstinacy, audits result long doubtful, but Scott gain- 
ing a superiority and actively maintaining it, was 
about to triumph, when the wife of his adversary in- 
terfering, and putting a loaded pistol into her husband's 
hand, he discharged it at poor Scott, who fell dead at 
his feet. This conflict being considered as the settle- 
ment of a point of honour, no eflbrt had been made 
to prevent it, but the survivor was now arrested, and 
being shortly after tried for murder, was condemned 
and executed* 



PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE, 

AND 

PRISONERS CONFINED AS SUBJECTS FOR RETALIATION. 



While such applause is bestowed on Revolutionary 
characters, distinguished in the field of glor}^, I con- 
sider it equally a duty, and it is altogether congenial to 
my inclination, to express my high admiration of the 
illustrious patriots, who, in defiance of the varied 
species of oppression by which they were incessantly 
goaded, adhered, with unshaken resolution, to the 
principles they had pledged themselves to support. 
History affords no example of magnanimity, that can 
surpass the firmness and patient suffering of the in- 
trepid associates, who, selected as objects of peculiar 
severity, and more refined persecution, were accused 
of imaginary crimes, and, in violation of the capitula- 
tion of Charleston, and every principle of good faith, 
torn from their families, and exiled to St. Augustine. 
It has been said, that constancy will give place to 
despair, when suffering appears without end. To find 
them, therefore, firm in duty, and meeting their fate 
with that intrepid assurance which could alone result 
from greatness of soul, and a consciousness of correct 
and irreproachable conduct, must, as long as mankind 
possess sense to perceive, and virtue to approve, the 
beauty of patriotic worth and excellence, secure to 
them the gratitude and veneration of their country. 
This inhuman and unjustifiable measure is said to 



160 PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. 

have been adopted expressly to ascertain the firmness 
and constancy of the American character. What was 
the result? Did tyranny produce submission? Did 
integrity lose its dominion in the patriotic heart? O, 
no! The reverses of fortune afforded a more ample 
field for the display of their exalted magnanimity; and 
they never appeared less appalled, nor inclined to bend 
with submission to the yoke, than at the period when 
not a ray gleamed in perspective, to cheer them through 
the dark terrors of the storm. Not an individual 
shrunk from his duty. 

It is due to their exemplary firmness to be a little 
more particular relative to the suffering they were com- 
pelled to endure. 

When all the exiles (with the exception of General 
Gadsden, who steadily persisted in his resolution to 
qnter into no new engagement with men who had once 
deceived him) had given their paroles to confine them- 
selves within certain prescribed limits, and to with- 
hold, until exchanged, all active opposition to the 
British authorities. The commanding officer of the 
garrison, as if distrustful of their sincerity, issued an 
order, that they should attend, at roll-call, thrice every 
day, in these insulting words : 

" St. Augustine, September iGtli, 1780. 
GENERAL ORDERS. 

" The Rebel Prisoners are to appear at gun-fire in the evening, 
and at guard mounting in the morning, at the Town House, where 
the Commissary will attend, and call the roll of every name, and 
report to the Captain of the day if any be absent. 

" They are to put some badge of distinction on their Negroes, and 
other domestics, so that they may be known. 

" No Rebel uniform, or any coats in imitation of British or French 
Regimentals, to be worn by any of them. 



PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. 161 

" If any Soldier is seen or known to associate with any of the 
Rebels, he shall be brought to a Court Martial, and tried for a dis- 
obedience of orders. 

" By order of the Commanding Officer, 

" WM. FLOYER, Lieutenant, 
" Acting Adjutant in the 60th Regiment. 
" To Wm. Brown, Esq. 

" Commissary of Prisoners." 

Additional severities were constantly imposed ; but 
none that so highly aggravated misfortune, as an order 
which forbid the worship of the Deity. This was at 
first communicated by a verbal message, but was 
speedily followed by a direct order to Mr. Brown, the 
Commissary of Prisoners to this effect. 

; " St. Augustine, November 18th, 1780. 

" Sir, 

" Having been informed that the Rebel Prisoners have very 
improperly held private meetings for the purpose of performing Di- 
vine Service, agreeably to their rebellious principles, and as such 
proceedings are thought highly injurious to His Majesty's Govern- 
ment, and of seditious tendency, and an infringement of their pledge 
of honour : I desire you will acquaint them, that such meetings will 
not be allowed, and that seats will be provided for their reception in 
the Parish Church, where it is expected they will observe the utmost 
decency. You are also to mention to these gentlemen, that I consider 
messages delivered by you of sufficient weight and authenticity, and 
that it is in compliance with your request, that I descend to this man- 
ner of satisfaction, which Lieutenant Colonel Glazier also desires 
may be understood to be expressive of his sentiments. 

(Signed) " PAT TONYN. 

" To Wm. Brown, Esq. 

" Commissary of Prisoners of War." 

It is unnecessary for me to comment on this out- 
rageous insult both to God and man. I will content 
myself by giving an extract from the diary of the vene- 

21 



IQ2 PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. 

rable Mr. Josiah Smith, which plainly, but forcibly, 
speaks its effc-ct upon the minrl of a pious man. 

*' Behold the act of a British Governor ; an act 
neither charitable in its nature, nor pious in its inten- 
tion. Totally unworthy of the Christian character, 
and even short of Heathen tenderness and forbearance. 
For we read in Scripture, Acts chap, xxviii. ver. 30 
and 31, 'that Paul, then a prisoner in Rome, dwelt 
for two whole years in his own hired house, and re- 
ceived all that came unto him, preaching the kingdom 
of God, and teaching those things which concerned the 
Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man for- 
bidding liim.^ This only was our desire — and this we 
think was our duty; to spend a part of every Sabbath 
in holy adoration of the Divine Being, who not only 
created, but daily preserveth us, and in tender mercy 
supplies all our wants. But we are charged with pro- 
ceedings of a seditious tendency, and violation of our 
paroles and pledge of honour. This we absolutely deny, 
having carefully avoided to require any thing tending 
that way from our reader and preacher, either in ser- 
mons or prayers. Once, indeed, some expressions in 
the latter were made use of by the reader, contrary to, 
the expectations of the company, but never again re- 
peated; nor did we once court or enjoy the presence 
of any inhabitant in our Sabbath assemblies. But that 
we might not plead the entire want of religious wor- 
ship, we are ' invited to attend the Parish Church, 
where seats will be provided for us, and where it was 
expected that we should observe the utmost decency.^ 
This is, indeed, an insult upon our understandings; for, 
can it be expected, that we could, with the least sin- 
cerity, join in prayer for the daily destruction or dis- 
apr)ointed efforts of our brethren and friends, or im- 
plore success for a man that had countenanced every 
kind of oppression and cruelty towards our friends and 
connexions, and all with a view of enslaving us and 



PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. 163 

our posterity, and to whom we have sworn, that we 
will never be subject while we can have the power of 
remaining free citizens of the United States of Ame- 
rica. Such worship would indeed be no better than 
solemn mockery ; therefore, rather than join in such 
hypocritical petitions, and perhaps be insulted with 
sermons calculated to affront us, we have resolved to 
refuse our attendance on Divine worship, at the Parish 
Church, and patiently put up with the loss of paying 
our devotions publicly, and at our own dwellings 
silently to spend our returning Sabbaths, in the best 
manner we can, by reading and meditation, until it 
shall please the Almighty disposer of all events, to 
restore us again to peace, and to our afflicted families 
and friends." 

But how shall I find expression to do justice to the 
heroes, who, arrested as objects of retaliation, in the 
event of General Greene's carrying into effect his 
threat relative to the execution of Colonel Hayne, were 
shut up in prison-ships, and kept in momentary expec- 
tation of death. Allowed to forward an address to 
the American General, whose highly excited resent- 
ments the British commanders were anxious to depre- 
cate. They urge not, as might have been expected, 
the adoption of measures which would ensure their 
safety, but raised by their magnanimity above the ter- 
rors of an infamous and public execution, alone lament, 
" that if it be the lot of all or any of them to be sacri- 
ficed, that their blood cannot be disposed of more to 
the advancement of the glorious cause to which they 
had adhered." Where, in the annals of the world, 
shall we find an instance of more exalted patriotism. 
The highly eulogized self-devotion of Regulus, which 
immortalized his name, and added lustre to the reputa- 
tion of his country, when compared with such a dis- 
play of magnanimity, shrinks into insignificance. The 
Roman had been remarkable for the severity of his 



164 PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. 

manners, and would have been the last to excuse the 
failures of another; he therefore preferred a death 
which would obliterate from the minds of his country- 
men the recollections of his misfortunes, and even 
exalt him in their opinion, to a life which could only 
subject him to neglect, and the severer pangs of self- 
reproach. But, in this instance, not a solitary in- 
dividual, but a band of heroes, regardless of their own 
safety, bid defiance to the malignity of their persecu- 
tors, and calmly solicit, that no consideration of their 
sufferings, should alter the resolutions that the Ameri- 
can General had adopted as necessary to the main- 
tenance of the honour and interests of his country. 

It must be acknowledged, that the conduct of 
the officers of the Continental Line, composing the 
army of General Greene, gives them a title to 
distinguished encomium. Regardless of the conse- 
quences to which, in case of capture, they would be 
exposcil, they come forward with unanimity, and earn- 
estly solicit that prompt retaliation should avenge the 
murder of a heroic soldier, and for ever put down the 
wish to renew such sanguinary proceedings. " We are 
not," they say, *' unacquainted that such a measure 
will involve our lives in additional dangers, but we had 
rather forego temporary distinctions, and commit our- 
selves to the most desperate situations, than prosecute 
this just and necessary war, upon terms so unequal and 
dishonourable." This proceedure was highly gratify- 
ing to General Greene, but scorning to increase the 
miseries of the deluded loyalists who had joined the 
British standard, he resolved to retaliate on the Regu- 
lar Officers alone. Fortunately for those who had 
been designated as the proper objects of resentment, 
no one of equal rank with Colonel Mayne was ever 
after made a prisoner. I well remember when Major 
Skelly, of the 71st regiment, was taken, report had 
given him higher rank — he was called Colonel Skelly. 



PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. 165 

When ascertained that he was really a Major, General 
Greene, whose mind was evidently extremely agitated, 
said, " I rejoice at the circumstance, as he has the 
reputation of having always conducted himself with 
humanity, and like a gentleman. Had he been a Co- 
lonel, he must have suffered." 

My admiration of patriotism is such, that I make no 
excuse for giving the names of the persons, who, by 
their virtuous example, may teach the rising genera- 
tion how to act and hovv to suffer for the honour and 
prosperity of our Republic. 



EXILES TO ST. AUGUSTINE. 

Edward Blake, John Budd, Joseph Bee, Richard 
Beresford, John Berwick, Robert Cochran, Benjamin 
Cudvvorth, Henry Crouch, John Splatt Cripps, Ed- 
ward Barrel, Daniel De Saussure, John Edwards, 
Thomas Ferguson, George Flagg, Christopher Gads- 
den, Lieutenant Governor ; William H. Gibbes, Tho- 
mas Grimball, G. A. Hall, William Hall, Thomas 
Hall, Thomas Heyward, jun. Isaac Holmes, Richard 
Hutson, William Johnson, Noble Wimberly Jones, 
William Lee, Rev. John Lewis, William Logan, Wil- 
liam Livingston, John Loveday, Riciiard Lushington, 
Arthur Middleton, William Massey, Edward M'Crea- 
dy, Alexander Moultrie, John Morrall, John Neufville, 
Edward North, Joseph Parker, John Ernest Poyas, 
Samuel Prioleau, Jacob Read, Hugh Rutledge, Ed- 
ward Rutledge, Benjamin Postell, John Sausum, 
Thomas Savage, Thomas Singleton, Josiah Smith, 
Philip Smith, James Hamden Thomson, Peter Timo- 
thy, John Todd, Anthony Toomer, Benjamin Waller, 
James W^akefield, Edward Weyman, Morton Wilkinson. 

Of these distinguished citizens, five only survive, 
viz : Josiah Smith, Robert Cochran, George Flagg, 
AV. H. Gibbes, and John Todd. 



166 PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. 



PRISONERS OiN BOARD THE PRISON-SHIP TORBAY. 

William Axson, Samuel Ash, George Arthur, John 
Anthony, Ralph Atmore, John Baddeley, Peter Boun- 
iietheau, Henry Benbridge, Joseph Ball, Nathaniel 
Blundell, James Bricken, Francis Bayle, William Bas- 
quin, John Clarke, jun. Thomas Cooke, Norwood 
Conyers, James Cox, John Dorsuis, Joseph Dunlap, 
Rev. James Edmonds, Thomas Elliott, Joseph Elliott, 
John Evans, John Eberley, Joseph Glover, Francis 
Grott, Mitchell Gargil, William Graves, Peter Gue- 
rard, Jacob Henry, David Hamilton, Thomas Harris, 
William Hornby, Daniel Jacoby, Charles Kent, Sam- 
uel Lockhart, Nathaniel Lebby, Thomas Lislor, Tho- 
mas Legare, John Lesesne, Henry Lybert, John Mi- 
chael, John Minott, sen. Samuel Miller, Stephen 
Moore, George Monck, Jonathan Morgan, Abraham 
Mariett, Solomon Milner, John Neufville, jun. Philip 
Prioleau, James Poyas, Job Palmer, Joseph Robinson, 
Daniel Rhody, Joseph Righton, William Snelling, 
John Stephenson, jun. Paul Snyder, Abraham Seavers, 
Ripley Singleton, Samuel Scottowe, Stephen Shrews- 
bury, John Saunders, James Tousseger, Paul Taylor, 
Sims Wliite, James Wilkins, Isaac White, George 
Welch, Benjamin AVheeler, William Wilkie, John 
Weleh, Thomas You. 



PRISONERS ON BOARD THE SCHR. PACK-HORSE. 

John Barnwell, Edward Barnwell, Robert Barn- 
well, William Brandfbrd, John Blake, Thomas Coch- 
ran, Josepii Gray, Ptobert Dewar, William De Saus- 
sure, Thomas Eveleigh, John Edwards, jun. John W. 
Edwards, William Elliott, Benjamin Guerard, Tho- 
mas Grayson, Thomas Gibbons, Philip Gadsden, John 
Greaves, William H. Henr}^, John B. Holmes, William 



PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. 167 

Holmes, Thomas Hughes, James Heyward, George 
Jones, Henry Kennon, John Kean, Stephen Lee, 
Philip Meyer, George Mosse, William Neufville, John 
Owen, Charles Pinckney, jun. Samuel Smith, William 
H. Wigg, Charles Warham, Thomas Waring, jun. 
Richard Waring, John Waters, David Warham, Rich- 
ard Yeadon. 



There are still other Patriots to be added to the list 
of persons subjected to peculiar persecution. The 
dreary vaults of the Provost were assigned to them as 
a residence, and in some cases, with the additional 
incumbrance of heavy irons. The Colonels Stark 
and Beard, Captain Moore, Mr. Pritchard, Messrs. 
Peter Boquet, Samuel Legare, Jonathan Sarazin, 
Henry Peronneau, Daniel Stevens, and others, who, 
incapable of deserting the cause of their country, had 
shown no disposition to submission, were regarded as 
the proper objects on whom it was expedient to try 
the effect of coercion. They underwent the trial, the 
ordeal of persecution, without the slightest dereliction 
of j)rinciple, their patriotic virtue retained its purity to 
the last. 



THE ANCIENT BATTALION OF 
ARTILLERY. 

Wheresoever a display of patriotic devotion to 
the service of their country, has distinguished any 
association of Citizens, it has been peculiariy grateful 
to me to record it. I consider it a tribute justly due to 
the Charleston Ancient Battalion of Artillery, 
to state, that their patient endurance of difficulties, 
their active exertions in the field, gained them, through- 



168 PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. 

out the war, a continued increase of reputation. — 
Their exemplary gallantry in the action near Beaufort, 
where a considerable British force under Gairdner, 
was defeated by General Moultrie, and steady conduct 
on the Lines during the siege of Charleston, when the 
defence of the Horn-Work was particularly intrusted 
to them, must, for ever, redound to their credit. Nor 
is it less honourable to them to find, in the list of 
Exiles banished to vSt. Augustine, and persons selected 
for peculiar persecution, and sentenced to close con- 
finement in the Provost and Prison-Ships, the names 
of all their Officers without an exception, and very 
many of the Non-Commissioned Officers and Privates 
of the Battalion. They were the only volunteer 
corps of the Militia that remained, at the conclusion 
of the war, unbroken ; and after the evacuation of 
Charleston by the enemy, being speedily reorganized 
and recruited, have continued to preserve their high 
and merited reputation. It is a pleasure to me to give 
the names of the Officers in command at the resto- 
ration of peace. 

Thomas Grimball, Major. 

Thomas Heyward, Captain. 

Edward Rutledge, do. 

Anthony Toomer, do. 

William H. Gibbes, Captain Lieutenant. 

Sims White, Lieutenant. 

Edward Neufville, do. 

Peter Bounetheau, do. 

William Morgan, do. 

John D. Miller, do» 

Edward Weyman, do. 

Daniel Stevens, do. 

Charles Warham, do. 



GADSDEN. 169 



GENERAL GADSDEN. 

The conduct of the British commanders towards 
this venerable patriot, in the strongest manner evinced 
their determination rather to crush the spirit of oppo- 
sition, than by conciliation to subdue it. The man did 
not exist to whose delicate sense of honour, even a 
shadow of duplicity would have appeared more abhor- 
rent than General Gadsden. Transported by an arbi- 
trary decree, with many of the most resolute and 
influential citizens of the Republic, to St. Augustine, 
attendance on parade was peremptorily demanded ; 
when a British officer stepping forward, said, '' Ex- 
pediency, and a series of political occurrences, have 
rendered it necessary to remove you from Charleston 
to this place ; but, gentlemen, we have no wish to 
increase your sufferings; to all, therefore, who are 
willing to give their paroles, not to go bej^ond the 
limits prescribed to them, the liberty of the town will 
be allowed ; a dungeon will be the destiny of such as 
refuse to accept the indulgence." The proposition 
was generally acceeded to. But when General Gads- 
den was called to give this new pledge of faith, he in- 
dignantly exclaimed, " With men who have once de- 
ceived me, I can enter into no new contract. Had the 
British commanders regarded the terms of the capitula- 
tion of Charleston, I might now, although a prisoner, 
under my own roof, have enjoyed the smiles and con- 
solations of my surrounding family ; but even without 
a shadow of accusation proffered against me, for any 
act inconsistent with my plighted faith, I am torn from 
them, and here, in a distant land, invited to enter into 
new engagements. I will give no parole." " Think 
better of it, Sir," said the officer, " a second refusal 
of it will fix your destiny — a dungeon will be your 

22 



no GADSDEN, 

future habitation.'' " Prepare it, then," said the in- 
flexible patriot, *' I will give no parole, so help me 
Godr 

An opposition to the arbitrary mandate of the pre- 
vailing authorities, was estimated as a crime too 
flagrant to pass unpunished. The rectitude of his 
character, the respectability of his age, afforded no 
plea in his favour ; he was immediately sepai-ated from 
his companions in misfortune, and for the remaining 
period of his captivity, condemned to pass his days in 
solitary confinement. It was not, however, for perse- 
cution to daunt and overcome a mind as firm in 
patriotic virtue as his. Patient under every insult, he 
felt the pressure of tyranny, but bent not beneath its 
weight. He uttered no sigh, he made no remonstrance, 
nor deigned to solicit a mitigation of the severities 
inflicted upon him ; and for ever to his honour must it 
be rememl>ered, that, superior to the dictates of resent- 
ment, however highly excited, at the memorable session 
of the Legislature at Jacksonborough, no individual 
advocated with greater ardour and humanity the cause 
the unfortunates, who had incurred the public dis- 
pleasure, nor more strenuously endeavoured to mollify 
the punishments denounced against them. 

" Les malheiireiix, que ont de P esprit,, irouvent des 
resources en eux raemes,^^ Sensible that activity of mind 
would increase its energies, and better enable him to 
support oppression, he diligently engaged in the study 
of the Hebrew language, and was hourly increasing 
his reputation as a scholar, while his enemies vainly 
hoped that he was writhing under the penalties of his 
political oftences. 

The character of a disinterested Patriot, pure in prin- 
ciple, and guided by the most honourable intentions, 
was allowed to him even by the most determined of 
his political opponents. The late Governor Boone,. 
decidedly the man of the best information and correct 



GADSDEN. 171 

judgment ever sent from Britain to preside over the 
province of South Carolina, was heard at the com- 
mencement of the Revolutionary War, to say — *' God 
knows how this unhappy contest will end, or what the 
popular leaders in South Carolina can be aiming it — - 
but Gadsden I know to be an honest man — he means 
well." 

A writer of intelligence, immediately subsequent to 
his death, doing homage to his virtues, recommends, 
and in my opinion with singular propriety, a sentence 
from Cicero, as an appropriate Epitaph : 

^^ IN DIFFICILLIMIS REIPUBLIC.E TEMPORIBUS URBEM NUNQUA^S 

DESERUI IN PROSPERIS NIHIL DE PUBLICO DELIBAVI, 

IN DESPERATIS NIHIL TIMUI." 

And to the still higher increase of his reputation, adds 
— " Ihe first to raise the standard of opposition 
against the parent government, he was the first to re- 
commend oblivion in favour of those who differed in 
opinion, and w^ho were condemned to pay the penalty 
of their political offences, by the forfeiture of their 
estates." 

An instance of his firm and decided character,' which 
occurred in the year 1777, is highly worthy to be 
recorded. The Congress of the United States, not 
long after the declaration of Independence, having 
recommended to the States, that such of the dis- 
affected as were willing to take the oath of allegiance, 
should be permitted to do so ; Mr. Lowndes, then Prti- 
sident of the State, issued his Proclamation, extend- 
ing the time for taking the oath allowed by the act of 
the State Legislature. This measure being reprobated 
by some of the Whigs, a number of persons assembled, 
who, after tearing the Proclamation from the hands of 
the Marshal, proceeded with noise and tumult to the 
State House, where the President and Council were 



172 GADSDEN. 

then in session. General Gadsden, who was one of 
the Council, came out to the people, and finding their 
resentments directed towards the President, told them 
that he, himself, was the man whom they should assail 
— that he had advised the Proclamation — that the pub- 
lic interest required that the country should be united — 
and that all who were willing to embark in the com- 
mon cause, should be received, though they came in 
at the last hour — that the recommendations of Con- 
gress, at such a crisis, should be received as law — that 
those who resisted them were little better than the 
enemies of the country — that for himself, whatever 
might be said, or done, he, as a Magistrate, would 
administer the oaths to any person, to the last moment 
of the time permitted by the Proclamation. In pur- 
suance of this declaration, he sat up till twelve o'clock 
of the night of the last day appointed for the purpose 
of receiving the oaths, and did, actually, at a late 
hour, issue certificates to some who took the oaths 
before him. 

When first shut up in the Castle at St. Augustine, 
the comfort of a light was denied him by the Com- 
mandant of the Fortress. A generous subaltern offered 
to supply him with a candle, but he declined it, least 
the Officer should expose himself to the censure of his 
superior. 

After Andre's arrest, Colonel Glazier, the Governor 
of the Castle, sent to advise General Gadsden to pre- 
pare himself for the worst — intimating, that as Gen- 
eral Washington had been assured of retaliation, if 
Andre was executed, it was not unlikely that General 
Gadsden would be the person selected. To this mes- 
sage he replied — " That he was always prepared to 
die for his country ; and though he knew it was im- 
possible for Washington to yield the right of an Inde- 
pendent State by the Law of War, to fear or affection, 
yet he would not shrink from the sacrifice, and would 



GADSDEN. 173 

rather ascend the scaffold than purchase with his life 
the dishonour of his country. 

An election of a Governor of the State occurring 
shortly after his exchange, the suffrages of the majority 
of the Legislature were in his favour, but he declined 
the office, and in terms so highly honourable to him, 
that I fear not to offend by recording their purport. 

"Mr. Speaker, and Gentlemen, 

*' I have served my country in a variety of sta- 
tions for thirty years, and would now cheerfully make 
one of a forlorn hope in an assault on the lines of 
Charleston, if it was probable, that with a certain loss 
of life, you, my friends, would be reinstated in the pos- 
session of your capital. What I can do for my country, 
I am willing to do. My sentiments in favour of the 
American cause have never changed. I consider it as 
the cause of liberty and human nature. The present 
times require the vigour and activity of the prime of 
life; the increasing infirmities of old age would prevent 
me from serving you to your advantage. For your 
sakes, and the sake of the public, I must beg your in- 
dulgence for declining so arduous a trust." 



JOHN RUTLEDGE. 

The extraordinary powers of John Rutledge, his 
extensive knowledge, and irresistible eloquence, can 
best be estimated by the high encomium bestowed on 
him by the celebrated Patrick Henry, of Virginia, who 
declared, that in the first Congress, where there was 
as brilliant a display of talent as was ever exhibited in 
a collected body of legislators, " that he shone with 
superior lustre*" Being asked on his return to his 



174 RUTLEDGE. 

native State, " what had been clone by the representa- 
tives of the nation — what kind of men composed that 
illustrious body, and particularly whom he thought the 
greatest man," he replied, " If you speak of eloquence, 
John Riitledge, of South-Carolina, is the greatest 
orator ; but, if you speak of information and sound 
judgment, Colonel Washington is unquestionably the 
greatest man on the floor." Of his decision of character 
there can exist no doubt. It was strongly exemplified 
at the very commencement of the Revolutionary con- 
test. When the vote to appoint deputies to a Continen- 
tal Congress was carried in the Assembly of South- 
Carolina, propositions were immediately introduced, 
for instructing the Delegates to what point it was ad- 
missible for them to pledge the concurrence of the 
Province to such measures as might be proposed for 
general adoption. John Rutledge, with great ability, 
contended, that unless unshackled by restraint, and 
allowed to act at discretion, that their power to do 
good would be inadequate to the energies which the 
crisis demanded ; and being asked, " w^hat ought we to 
do then, with these men should they make a bad use of 
the power delegated to them, he replied, '^ hang them.^^ 
But to his guidance of the helm of government, 
during the most calamitous scenes of the war within 
the State, is in a great degree to be attributed the suc- 
cesses ultimately obtained over a powerful and tri- 
umphant enemy. He, at a very early period, perceiv- 
ed the superior ability of General Greene to direct 
every military operation, and with, indefatigable in- 
dustry, seconded his views with all the influences of 
the civil authority. His judicious promotion of the 
Generals Sumter, Marion, and Pickens, did credit to 
his discernment, and proved of the highest utility to 
his country, while the well timed proclamations, pro- 
mising pardon and protection to all who had in evil 
hour been fempted to make submission, awakened as 



RUTLEDGE. 175 

by a charm the slumbering energies of patriotism, and 
roused the entire population of Carolina, as one man, 
to seek for conquest, or encounter death. In his speech, 
when advanced to the Presidential chair of the State, 
on the first formation of the Constitution, he declared, 
" I have always thought every man's best services due 
to his country ;" and to the last hour of the war, his 
entire conduct gave testimony of his sincerity. His 
zeal and activity never knew abatement. His decision 
in refusing to sanction the abandonment of the Fort 
on Sullivan's Island, on the approach of the fleet of 
Sir Peter Parker, must, for ever, redound to his 
honour, since it not only gave to General Moultrie, 
and his intrepid Garrison, the opportunity to show 
how firm the resistance of men determined to be free ; 
but so completely changed the sentiments of the enemy 
with regard to the opposition which they were to 
encounter, when engaged with Carolinians, that, 
though still formidable in force, and capable of doing 
much mischief, they at once relinquished the idea of 
further hostility, and precipitately withdrew to New 
York. 

His exertions in collecting the militia of the interior 
country at Orangeburgh, on the invasion of Provost, 
and expeditious movement to frustrate the attack on 
Charleston, by its happy results, increase his claim to 
applause. Above every other trait of character, (when 
I consider the propensity of man to indulge with wan- 
tonness in the exercise of delegated authority) it must 
redound to the honour of John Rutledge, possessing 
dictatorial powers, that the justice and equitable cur- 
rent of iiis administration, never engendered the slight- 
est murmur, nor gave birth to a single complaint. 
So mild, indeed, and conciliating were all his actions, 
that obedience went hand in hand with command ; and 
the ardour of zeal seemed rather to solicit service^ 
than seek the means of avoiding it. 



176 RUTLEDGE. 

Though taxed by Cassitis, a political writer of the 
day, as being the framer and advocate of the Confis- 
cation Law, (now generally reprobated) it would be 
the height of injustice exclusively to censure hirriy 
when at the moment of its passing, there were not 
more than a dozen Members of the Legislature, who 
declared their sentiments, or gave their votes in oppo- 
sition to it. The fact is, that the provocation to 
severity had been considered as excessive, and the 
irritation of the public mind excited beyond control. 
I was on the spot at the moment that the bill passed, 
and had strong reason to believe, that though certainly 
approved, it did not orginate with him. 



EDWARD RUTLEDGE. 

As firmly attached as his brother, to every feeling 
and sentiment of patriotism, Mr. Edward Rutledge, 
with equal assiduity, devoted his time and his talents 
to the public service. If the Demosthenian eloquence 
of John Rutledge was more impetuous and command- 
ing, the Ciceronian style of Edward was more per- 
suasive. There was a suavity in his manner, and 
conciliating attraction in his arguments, that had 
frequently the effect of subduing the prejudices of the 
uni'riendly, and which never failed to increase the 
ardour and inflexibility of steady friends. The elo- 
quence of John Rutledge was as a rapid torrent ; that 
of Edward as a gentle and smoothly gliding stream — 
the first hurried you forward to the point it aimed at, 
with powerful impetuosity — the last conducted to it, 
with fascinations that made every progressive step 
appear enchanting. Civil occupations engaged the 
attention of the elder brother. The younger in the 



RUTLEDGE. 177 

field, as well as in the cabinet, obtained celebrity. 
In the well-contested action on Port Royal Island, he 
had the command of one of the field-pieces which 
essentially contributed to the victory, and justly re- 
ceived the thanks of the General who commanded. 
After the capture of Charleston, the influence both of 
his talents and example, did not escape the penetration 
of the British Commanders. They plainly saw, how 
much a man of such supc^rior ability, would be looked 
up to by the suffering multitude; and to destroy the 
effect, by an act of as great tyranny as ever was exer- 
cised, removed him to St. Augustine. The cheerful- 
ness of his natural disposition, his conciliating atten- 
tion to his companions in this situation of unmerited 
persecution, contributed, in no trifling degree, to 
cherish hope, and oppose intrepid resistance to every 
encroachment of despondency. After his exchange 
and freedom from captivity, he was elected a Member 
of the Legislature of the State ; and at the conclusion 
of the war, served in the Council aiding the adminis- 
tration of Governor Matthews. The act of his life 
that exalts him to the highest honour, is still to be 
mentioned. He was one of the signers of the Decla- 
ration of Independence, on the 4th of July, 1776. 
This is a sublime test of patriotism, that can never be 
disputed ; and which, as long as the liberties of Ame- 
rica shall endure, will secure to him the admiratioA 
and blessings of his country. 



HUGH RUTLEDGE. 

The talents of Mr. Hugh Rutledge were not, per- 
haps, equally brilliant, nor of so distinguished a cast as 
those of his brothers ; but, for solidity of judgment, 

23 



178 RUTLEDGE. 

and strong manly sense, he was not inferior to either 
of them ; and as a firm and intrepid Patriot, was pre- 
eminently distinguished by the cheerful performance of 
every duty to his country. He too, like his brother 
Edward, was deemed of sufficient consequence, to be 
made an object of peculiar persecution ; and being 
sent into exile, supported all the trials of long confine- 
ment, and irritating restrictions, with unshaken con- 
stancy. After his exchange, he filled the Speaker's 
Chair in the Legislature greatly to the satisfaction of 
its Members, and finally advanced to the Chancery 
Bench, closed a life of usefulness with the applause 
and sincere regrets of his grateful country. 



DR. DAVID RAMSAY. 

The literary character of Dr. Ramsay does honour 
to his country; his political conduct during the Revo- 
lutionary war no less honour to himself. The dawn of 
hostility found him with a reputation for talents, in- 
tegrity, and patriotism, which his conduct throughout 
the contest seemed to extend and embellish. It was the 
peculiar characteristic of the American Revolution, that 
the men the most distinguished for genius and virtue 
were its advocates. In the ranks of the Rebels (as the 
English delighted to call them) were found almost all 
the orators, statesmen, and philosophers, of whom the 
country could boast. Lawyers who had attained the 
highest distinction in the Legislature, and at the bar ; 
Physicians who had become eminent for their science 
and professional skill ; Merchants who had acquired 
wealth and honour by commercial enterprise; and even 
ministers of the Gospel, who, by their learning and 
piety, had endeared themselves to the people, all united 



RAMSAY. 179 

their efforts in the common cause. Thus was dignity 
givon to the contest, and the public feeling was excited 
to a state of the most noble enthusiasm. The influence 
of Dr. Ramsay's example was felt and acknowledged 
by all. He was universally esteemed as a man of pro- 
fessional learning, and of the purest patriotism, and he 
was known to be governed in all his actions by a deep 
sense of moral and religious duty. The purity of his 
life was considered as the best evidence of the upright- 
ness of his views. The zeal with which he espoused 
the cause of freedom, could not fail then to produce a 
powerful effect on the minds of the timid and scrupu- 
lous. Dr. Ramsay never hesitated a moment as to the 
part he should take in the struggle. With an earnest- 
ness and ardour which no danger or difficulty could 
impair, he embarked his life and fortune in the cause 
of liberty and his country. He was one of the earliest 
advocates for independence, and in every period of the 
war he wrote, and spoke, and acted, with the greatest 
zeal and ability for the accomplishment of that glorious 
object. As a a member of the Council of Safety, of 
the Provincial Legislature, and finally of the Con- 
tinental Congress, he was always distinguished for his 
eloquence in debate, his wisdom in council, and his 
promptitude and energy in action. Having engaged in 
the contest from principle, Dr. Ramsay pursued his 
course with a devotion and perseverance, which proved 
that his heart was in the work. The press teemed 
with the ingenious productions of his pen; and at all 
public meetings his eloquence was exerted to sustain 
the pride and spirit of the people. Regardless of his 
private interests, he never hesitated to perform any 
labour, or to incur any risk, which the general welfare 
seemed to require. When his professional services 
were called for he constantly joined the army, and was 
present with the Charleston Ancient Battalion of Artil- 
lery at the siege of Savannah. It was natural that 



180 RAMSAY. 

such a man should become the peculiar object of the 
vengeance of the enemy. He was accordingly one of 
the victims selected by Lord Cornvvallis to be banished 
to St. Augustine. After an exile of eleven months, in 
conequence of an exchange of prisoners, he was re- 
leased and returned to Carolina, joining Governor 
Rutledge at the Hills of Santee, and shortly after took 
his seat as a member of the Legislature, convened at 
Jackson borough. Though he had just suffered great 
indignity from the injustice and violated faith of the 
enemy, yet always superior to bad passions, and incapa- 
ble of revenge, he exerted his great talents and influ- 
ence in the Assembly to prevent the passage of the 
Confiscation Acts, and to lessen the punishments de- 
nounced against political offenders. These honour- 
able exertions were not crowned with success, yet still 
the praise is due to Dr. Ramsay of having sacrificed 
his personal feelings, and made a noble effort to stem 
the torrent of public indignation, which was then 
sweeping before it many of the wisest and best men of 
the State. 

During the Revolution he was carefully treasuring 
up materials for a History of its eventful scenes, his 
ardent character never permitting him to doubt the 
final success of his countrymen, and the establishment 
of American Independence. Li the year 1785, he 
published his History of the Revolution in South 
Carolina, and in 1790, h^ gave to the world his general 
History of the American Revolution. No man could 
have brought to the composition of such works, higher 
qualifications, or a more valuable stock of information. 
He was aware, that his feelings as an American Pa- 
triot, might affect his impartiality and bias his judg- 
ment ; and he also knew, that a faithful detail of facts, 
would probably be received at that period, by both 
parties, with dissatisfaction. He set out, therefore, 
with a firm resolution, as he himself declares, " to 



RAMSAY. 181 

decline the fruitless attempt of aiming to please either 
party, and to follow the attractions of truth whither- 
soever she might lead." In the prosecution of this 
honourable determination, "I declare," (says he) " that 
in the whole coiu'se of my writing, I have carefully 
watched the workings of my mind, lest passion, pre- 
judice, or party feeling should warp my judgment ; and 
I have endeavoured to impress on myself, how much 
more honourable it is to write impartially for the good 
of posterity, than to condescend to be the apologist of 
a party." No higher praise can be bestowed on Dr. 
Ramsay, than to say, that he acted on these noble prin- 
ciples in the composition of all his works. By the 
Histories above alluded to, and those which he after- 
wards published. Dr. Ramsay acquired the distin- 
guished appellation of The American Historian, and 
erected for himself a monument as lasting as time. 

The character of Dr. Ramsay's eloquence was alto- 
gether striking and peculiar. I never heard on the 
floor of our Legislature, a Speaker whose harangues 
were better calculated to impress on his audience, the 
truths which he wished to inculcate. His arguments 
always forcible, and admirably arranged, were brought 
forward with peculiar effect ; for, so strong was his 
expression of feeling, that it was impossible not to be- 
lieve him sincere. His biographer, on this subject, ex- 
presses himself as follows : — " Dr. Ramsay was a 
remarkably fluent, rapid, and ready speaker ; and 
though his manner was ungraceful — though he neglec- 
ted all ornament, and never addressed himself to the 
imagination, or the passions of his audience, yet his 
style was so simple and so pure, his reasoning so 
cogent, his remarks so striking and original, and his 
conclusions resulted so clearly from his premises, that 
he seldom failed to convince."^ Dr. Ramsay retained 

* Vide the Biographical Memoir of Dr. Ramsav, prefixed to his History of 
the United States. That .Memoir was written by Colonel Rocekt Y, Hayse, 



132 RAMSAY. 

his style of speaking, in all its original ardour, purity, 
and force, to the period of his death. 

As a Politician, Dr. Ramsay was always remarkable 
for his candor and liberality. As an instance of this, 
it may be here mentioned, that he had on one occasion, 
expressed doubts of the correctness of the principles 
on which the association of the Cincinnati is founded ; 
and in common with many others, entertained fears of 
the tendency of that Society, to build up an Aristo- 
cracy in this country. Experience, " the best test of 
truth," fully convinced him of his error ; and the late 
war with Great Britain, having brought the patriotism 
of its Members to the test, gave occasion to Dr. Ram- 
say, voluntarily, to assure the author, that he was so 
fully convinced of the Republican virtues of the Cin- 
cinnati, that should he publish another edition of his 
History, he would acknowledge the error of the opi- 
nions he had formerly entertained on the subject. This 
expression of his sentiments, induced the submission to 
his perusal of an admonitory address to a youthful 
Member, recently admitted into the Society, when with 
great expression of feeling he exclaimed — ** I w^ill 
venture to assert, that this young man never heard a 
sermon which did him so much good. While such 
your lectures, and such the principles inculcated into 
the youthful mind, I know of no association more 
likely to benefit society than the Cincinnati." From 
a man of so serious a turn of mind, a higher compli- 
ment could not have been paid ; and I have ever 
lamented, that his untimely fate prevented the display 
of a liberality which would have done him the highest 
honour. 

of this city, being the substance of an Oration delivered by him, on the occa- 
sion of Dr. Ramsay's death, before the Literary and Philosophical Society of 
South Carolina, published, by the request of that Society, in the Analectic 
Magazine, and afterwards prefixed to Dr. Ramsay's History. 



DRAYTON. ] 83 



WILLIAM HENRY DRAYTON. 

It had long been a source of mortification to the 
Colonists, that no attention had been paid to native 
talents, and that as often as a post of trust or emolu- 
ment became vacant, that instead of being filled up by 
a choice from the candidates for distinction, with whom 
both the Courts and the Legislature abounded, some 
needy adventurer, or parasitical sycophant, was seen 
to arrive, whose only merit consisted in the art of bow- 
ing with humility to his superiors, or whose favour was 
derived from the fascinating influence of some pretty 
relative, who had skill to impress on an influential 
minister, the conviction that he was qualified to sup- 
port the dignity of Britain in her Colonies. There 
w^ere few communities in which a greater display of 
ability was shown than in Carolina. What country 
could boast of superior talents to those exhibited by 
Peter Manigault, William Wragg, John, Edward and 
Hugh Rutledge, Charles Cotesvvorth and Thomas 
Pinckney, Rawlins Lowndes, William and Wiiliam 
Henry Drayton, Thomas Bee, John Matthews, David 
Ramsay, Jacob Read, and very many others; but these 
w^ere characters two honest and proud in spirit, im- 
plicitly to obey the dictates of a power daily encroach- 
ing on the liberties of the people, and alone intent to 
reduce them to a submission that would have led them 
to lick the dust beneath the foot that spurned them. 
Their talents and their virtues appeared but feeble 
claims to distinction, and their being natives, an insur- 
mountable bar to success. Twice had the respectable 
Lieutenant Governor Bull been insulted by a cruel 
departure from the regular rotine of succession, having 
men of the very meanest capacities put over him. It 
is certainly no scandal to say, that the two last 



184 DRAYTON, 

Governors iiiulcr the royal administration, were de- 
ficient even in common nnderstandinc;, owinc; their 
promotion entirely ro their rank, and the powerful 
influence of iheir families. There were among the 
jndces some men of ability, but the majority of them, 
were miserably deficient in political and general in- 
formation, and of professional knowledge altogether 
ignorant. It has often been said of Chief Justice 
Shinner, that he never opened a law book till he 
was actuall}' on his passage to America. Of the 
qualifications of Judge Futerel, a little anecdote will 
give an adequate idea. At a dancing assembly, having 
too freely sacrificed to Bacchus, he lay extended on a 
bench, in a retiring room, confused with liquor, when 
perceiving a gentleman pulling off his coat for the pur- 
pose of changing a waistcoast that had been accidentally 
soiled, he leapt up, and putting himself into a boxing 
attitude, exclaimed, " O damn you, if you are for that 
sport, I'm at home — come on.*' Such were our Gov- 
ernors, such the men sent from the Parent State to 
administer justice. 

A reference to an interesting debate in the British 
House of Commons, more fully illustrates the extent 
to which such insult towards the Colonists were 
carried. George Grenville, exclaiming, '' Shall these 
Americans, our own children, planted by our cares, 
nourished by our indulgence, dare to resist our de- 
crees," &:c. &:c. &c. Colonel Barre caught the words, 
and with manly eloquence said, " They nourished by 
our indulgence ? Tiiey grew up by our neglect ; and 
as soon as you b(^gan to care about them, that care was 
exercised in sending persons to rule over them, in one 
department and another, who were })erhaps the depu- 
ties of the deputies of some members of this House, 
sent to s])y ui)on their liberty, to misrepresent their 
actions, and to prey upon them. Men whose behaviour, 
on many occasions, has caused the blood of these sons 



DRAYTON. 185 

of liberty to recoil within them ; men promoted to the 
highest seats of justice, some of whom, to my know- 
led ::p, were glad by going to foreign countries, to 
escape the vengeance of the laws in their own." 

At the commencement of the Revolution William 
Henry Drayton, who officiated as one of the Assistant 
Judges, was the only member of the bench who was a 
native American. His part was promptly taken, and 
with decision. His ardour to su[)port the liberties of 
his country was so highly estimated, as to cause his 
immediate nomination to the Presidency of the Pro- 
vincial Congress. His abilities were confessedly great, 
and popular talents considered so well calculated to 
conciliate the wavering and unfriendly, and effect 
their adherence to the cause of their country, that, in 
conjunction with the Rev. Mr. Tennant, he was sent 
into the interior expressly to effect the union of fyarties, 
and to excite a general and firm opposition to British 
tyranny. The seeds of disafiiection, however, were 
already too generally sown. The enemies to Revolu- 
tionary principles temporized, but as speedily as the 
hope revived of being supported by a competent British 
force, broke out in open hostility, and it was quickly 
found that the swords of Sumter and of Pickens more 
effectually produced the performance of their duties 
than the persuasive eloquence of Tennant, and com- 
manding oratory of Drayton. His letters published 
expressly to controvert the machinations of the British 
commissioners, holding out the fallacious hope of con- 
ciliation, have been considered as replete with irresis- 
tible arguments, and written in the best style of com- 
position. His Strictures also on the conduct of Gene- 
ral Charles Lee disobeying orders at the battle of 
Monmouth, and calling in question the military capa- 
city of General Washington, have been, by a great 
majority of the Union, very highly approved. 

24 



186 EDWARDS. 



MR. JOHN EDWARDS. 

It must appear both injudicious and unjust, that 
Mr. John Edwards has been so little noticed. This 
name has been scarcely mentioned in the records of 
our Revolution ; yet, there was no citizen of the 
republic, in whose bosom the love of liberty glowed 
with more generous enthusiasm. Possessing wealth 
beyond any other mercantile man of the day, he was 
the first individual in Carorlina who tendered his for- 
tunes in snpport of the American cause. His friend, 
the venerable Josiah Smith, was no less liberal in his 
loans to Government ; and it cannot be doubted, but 
that their example must, in a great degree, have con- 
tributed to give stability to public credit, and to induce 
many of less sanguine hopes, to risk their fortunes for 
the public good. Warned by his more prudential 
friends, that he placed too much at hazard ; that 
the success of America, opposed to the power of Bri- 
tain, could scarcely be expected ; and that the total 
loss of his ample possessions might follow^ : With a 
feeling of patriotism that cannot be too highly appre- 
ciated, he replied — " Be it so ! I would rather lose 
my all, than retain it, subject to British authority.'^ 
His subsequent conduct gives ample testimony, that 
this was no vain boasting. Shortly after the fall of 
Charleston, invited to a conference by Admiral Ar- 
buthnot, who was quartered on him, and occupied the 
principal apartments of his house, a conversation took 
I)lace, the purport of which, immediately after the 
conclusion, was communicated by him to his son in 
law, Mr. John Bee Holmes, from whom I received it. 
"Nothing, Mr. Edwards," said the Admiral, *Vhas 
appeared more extraordinary to Sir Henry Clinton 
and myself, than that you, a native of Great Britain, 



EDWARDS. 187 

should have taken part with the Rebels, and appeared, 
throughout the contest, a strenuous and decided advo- 
cate of revolutionary principles. How, Sir, is it to 
be accounted for ?" " Because," replied Mr. Ed- 
wards, " I conscientiously approved and have solemnly 
pledged myself to support them." " But, Mr, Ed- 
wards," rejoined the Admiral, " as a man of sense, 
however, you may have been heretofore deluded, your 
eyes must now be opened to the futility of resistance ; 
and as a man of honour, you are bound, by every 
means in 3'our power, to aid in promoting the submis- 
sion of the people, by a reconciliation with the merciful 
Government, that would obliterate every recollection 
of past offences, and again receive them with favour 
and forgiveness. We know that your influence can 
do much — that many look up to you for the regulation 
of their own conduct — we know too, that no indi- 
vidual has suffered such heavy pecuniary loss, by the 
depreciation of the paper currency, as yourself Re- 
ject not, therefore, the liberal and advantageous 
proposition which I am about to make you. Take 
protection yourself — recommend it to your friends to 
follow your meritorious example — use your best en- 
deavours to put down opposition to the British autho- 
rities, and you shall be forthwith, not only remunerated 
for every loss that you have sustained, but for the 
good effected through your means, a pecuniary reward 
shall be granted you, equal to your most sanguine 
desires." " Admiral Arbuthnot," said Mr. Edwards, 
" it is not the temptations of wealth that shall ever 
induce me to forfeit my honour. I cannot hesitate to 
choose, where duty, inclination, and every virtuous 
principle point out the course which it becomes me to 
pursue. My losses have been great, but they cost me 
not a sigh. My monies were lent, to support a cause 
which I consider that of justice and humanity. I 
have a wife, tenderly beloved, and ten children worthy 



188 EDWARDS. 

of my most ardent affection. They are all dependent 
upon me, and I may probably have little to leave them 
but good principles and an untarnished reputation ; 
but, were a gallows to be raised by your order, in 
my view, and you were to say — Your fate depends 
upon your resolve — take protection or perish — I would, 
without a moment's hesitation — die /" 

If the traits of character which I have exhibited, 
are acceptable to public sentiment, and have a claim to 
applause, how much must admiration of his i)atriotic 
conduct be increased, when it is remembered, that 
hearing in council the magnanimous proposition to 
await the event of an assault, and to devote the lives 
of the Garrison of Charleston to the attainment of 
general good, rather than surrender to the enemy, he 
nobly supported the opinion, and herorically declared 
for death in preference to submission. " I would 
rather," he exclaimed, " that my breast should meet 
the British bayonet, than that my signature should be 
given to any proposition recommending the surrender 
of the city." 

Supporting all the severities of exile and persecution 
at St. Augustine, with unshaken fidelity to his coun- 
try, he was sent with the companions of his misfor- 
tunes, after the happy negotiation of Major Hyrne for 
the exchange of prisoners, to Philadelphia. There, 
his virtues gained him respect — his misfortunes friends. 
He died in exile, and was interred amidst the regrets 
of an admiring people, whose pity for his sufferings 
could only be surpassed by their applause and admi- 
ration of the firmness with which he supported them. 



MATTHEWS. 189 



GOVERNOR MATTHEWS. 

To this distinguished patriot I have ever considered 
the citizens of the Southern States as peculiarly in- 
debted. It might at this late period be difficult to 
prove the fact, it must indeed at any time have excited 
astonishment, but I have heard him repeatedly declare, 
that after the defeat of General Gates near Camden, 
when the cloud that overshadowed the prospects of 
America wore its darkest hue, and even to the Revo- 
lutionists, the most sanguine of success, the enl^ebled 
rays of hope were scarcely percepitible, that through 
the intrigues, and at the suggestion of the French Am- 
bassador, it was contemplated to bring forward a pro- 
position in Congress to purchase from Great Britain, 
peace, and the independency of a large portion of the 
United States, by the sacrifice of the Carolinas and 
Georgia, Nor did he conceal the name of the indi- 
vidual who had engaged to introduce and advocate the 
measure. Fired with resentment, indignant that even 
in the private circles of society a proposal so base and 
disgraceful should have been whispered — that it should 
have been admitted into an American bosom, he deter- 
mined at once to put the virtue of the Delegated Repre- 
sentatives of his country to the test. Repairing to 
Congress, he forcibly reminded them of their bond of 
union ; that the several States were pledged to each 
other, through every variety of fortune, to accomplish 
the end of their association, or to fall together, " I will 
regard the man," he exclaimed, " who would attempt 
to weaken these sacred ties as the fit object of univer- 
sal execration ; and in the event that the members of 
Congress should so far debase themselves, as to listen 
to his nefarious proposal, after having, in conjunction 
with my colleagues, protested against the measure, and 



190 MATTHEWS. 

pointed out the source of the evil, I will say to my 
constituents, make your own terms with the enemy — 
no longer regard as associates, nor put your trust in 
men, who appalled by their fears, and under the influ- 
ence of a foreign power, to secure themselves from 
harm, make no scruple to doom their friends to de- 
struction." Happily for our country the energetic con- 
duct of our Delegates crushed the intrigue in embryo. 
It never saw the light. Mr. Bee and Colonel Eveleigh 
very nobly supported Mr. Matthews on this momentous 
occasion. 

Sometime subsequent to the writing of the anecdote 
above recorded, 1 learnt from General Thomas Pinck- 
ney, that while with Governor Rutledge at Camden, 
subsequent to the fall of Charleston, he was in- 
formed by him that he had received a letter from 
a member of the South-Carolina Delegation in Con- 
gress, (probably Mr. Matthews, to whom he was allied 
by the strictest ties of friendship,) informing him, that 
despondency for the fate of the Southern States was 
the universal sentiment, but that he still indulged the 
hope that Carolina would remain a member of the 
Union. But that some discussion had occurred in 
Congress, corresponding with the representation made 
by Governor Matthews, is more clearly demonstrated 
by the copy of a declaration made by that respectable 
body, June 25th, 1780, and extracted from Rivington's 
New-York Royal Gazette, September 13th of the 
same year, which, under other circumstances, would 
have been altogether superfluous, and inconsistent with 
common sense. 

" Whereas, it has been reported in order to seduce the States of 
South-Carolina and Georgia from their allegiance to the United States, 
that a treaty of peace betwixt America and Great Britain was about 
to take placcj and that these two States would be ceded to Great 
Britain, 



MATTHEWS. 191 

" Resolved unanimously. That the said report is insidious, and 
utterly void of foundation. That this confederacy is most sacredly 
pledged to support the liberty and independency of every one of the 
members ; and in a firm reliance on the Divine blessing, will unremit- 
tingly persevere in every exertion for the establishment of the same, 
and for the recovery and preservation of any and every part of the 
said United States that have been, or may hereafter be invaded or 
possessed by the common enemy. 

" Extract from the minutes. 

« CHARLES THOMPSON, Sec'ri/:' 



BENJAMIN GUERARD. 

The distresses of the Patriotic Citizens of South 
Carolina, transported to Philadelphia, were sufficient 
in thoir nature to engender the most gloomy despair* 
Hospitality opened the doors of the inhabitants to 
many families, who were kindly sheltered, and treated 
with the most cordial affection. But there were many 
unfortunates, accustomed through life to possess every 
essential comfort, who were destitute of common ne- 
cessaries, and not a few who actually wanted bread. 
I record it to the honour of Mr. Benjamin Guerard, a 
gentleman of extensive property, that he, upon this 
occasion, generously stepped forward, and offered to 
pledge his estate as a security, to raise a sum to be 
exclusively appropriated to the maintenance of his 
suffering Countrymen, demanding no greater share for 
himself, than that which should be allowed to every 
other individual. Carolina estates, however, were 
regarded as castles in the air, and his generous inten- 
tions proved altogether abortive. 

It would be painful to me, to neglect to mention 
names where just claims to humanity existed. My 
information is limited. Such individuals as I knew 



192 GUERARD. 

pre-eminently distinguished by their efforts to give 
relief, I am proud to speak of. Dr. Bond, Mr. Wikoff, 
Colonel Pettit, Mr. IngersoU, Dr. Logan, and many 
others, were liberal with delicacy, and doubled the 
obligation by bestowing their favours without osten- 
tation. Nor should it ever be forgotten in Carolina, 
that Colonel John Mitchell, so much the victim of 
misfortune in his latter years, who lived in Philadelphia 
at that period, in ease and affluence, never failed, 
as occasion required, to sooth the afflictions of the 
exiles, by every attention that benevolence could 
bestow. 



I am sensible, that to many of my readers a consi- 
derable portion of the Anecdotes which I record, may 
appear uninteresting, but as they relate to men, to re- 
collect whom, gives pleasure not only to myself, but 
to all who remember their constancy and exemplary 
good conduct in times "that tried men's souls," I am 
inclined to persist. 

JUDGE BURKE, 

Throughout the whole of the Revolution, acted a 
very conspicuous part. He was a steady and inflexible 
Patriot, and zealous supporter of the Laws. The 
people had not an advocate more ready to maintain 
their just rights, nor a more prompt opponent, when- 
ever they manifested the slightest disposition to licen- 
tiousness. He always meant well, though he frequently 
took an awkward way of showing it, and secured 
confidence by his unremitted endeavours to deserve it. 

It had been much the fashion, towards the close of 
the war, for persons wishing to avoid militia service, 



BURKE. 193 

to attach themselves as volunteers to the regular Con- 
tinental Reij;iments, engaging to take the field when- 
ever called upon ; but it speedily appeared, th^t self- 
indulgence was much more their real object, than 
public good. To counteract this practice, a Bill was 
introduced into the Legislature at Jacksonborough, to 
compel every man to serve in the Militia Regiment in 
which he was enrolled. Judge Burke, on this occa- 
sion, after using many arguments in support of the 
Bill, concluded by saying — " I shall give but one 
reason more, Mr. Speaker, against the volunteer sys- 
tem, and that is a very powerful one. Your volunteers 
are a set of very shabby fellows, and I have a good 
right to say it, 1 am a volunteer myself." Travelling 
the Circuit some years previous to the period, when an 
improved system of education had completely extin- 
guished a ferocity of character, which tolerated goug- 
ing, biting, and other disgraceful practices, and being 
asked why he carried pistols of unusual size and 
caliber : he replied — " As the best specific for the 
preservation of my eye sight — country frolics too fre- 
quently produciiig blindness." 

The system of espionage, however disgraceful to 
the party w ho undertakes to betray, being resorted to 
in every war, has been regarded as altogether justifiable 
on the tjart of the Officer who seeks intelligence. To 
individuals communicating information relative to the 
movements of the enemy, both General Greene and 
General Marion had promised protection, and release 
from the penalties attached to their political offences. 
This was a measure, in the highest degree, revolting 
to a large proportion of the Members of the House of 
Representatives, v^ho steadily maintained — " that to 
men so lost to every honourable feeling, the rights of 
citizenship should never be granted." The singularity 
of Judge Burke's reasoning on this subject, occasioned 
much amusement. He briefly said — " I am at a loss, 

25 



194 BURKE. 

Mr. Speaker, to conjecture, what the gentlemen would 
be at. The Generals were authorized to engage 
Spies, who would be tempted to betray the secrets of 
the Government they professed to honour ; and having 
done so, this House is bound to fulfil every contract 
that they have made. They proudly assert, what in 
my conscience I have little inclination to deny — that 
such men would be bnd citizens any where. But, 
Spies are confessed to be a necessary evil ; and I 
should be glad to know, if the gentlemen ever expect 
to find honest men, who will undertake the dirty work 
required of them, and act the part of villains, to pro- 
mote the public good ? No, Mr. Speaker. You are 
at liberty to despise the traitors, while you profit by 
their treason. You may cut their acquaintance — you 
may withhold the compliment of your hat, your hand, 
and your heart ; but, protected by the pledge given by 
the Generals, that they should be restored to their 
rights, and pardoned for their political criminality, the 
less that is said on the subject the better, since these 
Scoffs^ Yahoos as they are, are as truly citizens as 
any of us.'* 

Sending a challenge to a person who had grossly 
offended him, he thus expressed himself: — '' Sir, I 
must insist upon your giving me immediate satisfaction, 
for having so far imposed on me, as to make me be- 
lieve for a single moment, that you were a man of 
honour, or a gentleman." 

I myself remember to have heard him relate the 
circumstances contained in the Anecdote which fol- 
lows : 

When, to give permanency to, and increase the 
strength of the Union, the adoption of the Federal 
Constitution was strongly recommended by the most 
enlightened of our citizei^s, Judge Burke stood forth 
its strenuous opposer, using his utmost efforts to render 
it hateful to the people ; but, when he found that a 



BURKE. 195 

;;reat majority were of a different sentiment, and that 
its acceptance was sanctioned by their applauses, he 
gave up opposition, and studiously endeavoured to give 
energy to all its operations. 

Returning from a Circuit in the interior, he hap- 
pened, on one occasion, to fall in with^ a long train of 
wagons near Nelson's Ferry, conveying produce from 
North Carolina, to Charleston. With their conductors 
he immediately engaged in conversation, and wishing 
to ascertain their opinions of passing events, asked — 
" If they thought the recently adopted Constitution of 
the United States, would prove useful and acceptable 
to the People." The reply was unanimous — ** By no 
means. We abominate it, and to such a degree, that 
should the President think proper, on any emergency, 
to call us into the field, we would refuse obedience to 
a man." *' Tell that," said the Judge, " to some one 
that does not know you. Refuse to obey the call of 
your Chief Magistrate, when your country is in jeo- 
pardy ! — impossible! Look to the discipline which 
every mother's son of you keep up on your Farms, 
when you wish to know the extent and condition of 
your stock. Do you not blow your conchs, and do 
not your cattle, and your sheep, your pigs, and your 
poultry gather about you, as it were to ask your com- 
mands ? And when danger threatens, and the Presi- 
dent blows his conch, to call you to your duty, would 
you have me believe, that you would be more insen- 
sible than the beasts of the field ? The protection 
which the Government which he administers affords, 
is to you what feed is to your hogs ; and at the first 
blast, not one of the swinish herd would be more nim- 
ble in seeking his rations, than you would be in the 
opportunity of repelling aggression." *' You are a 
very free spoken man," said one of his auditors, '* and 
may, i)erhaps, be a clever one ; but, for your want of 
civility in comparing us to our hogs, be pleased to 



t88 BURKE. 

pass to the rear ; you cross not the River till the last 
of our wagons has reached the opposite shore." The 
Jud^e was forced to comply ; but, recollecting that his 
presence was required by a particular time in another 
quarter, he, at the risk of his life, swam his horses, 
and paddled himself across the River, admiring the 
independency of character in men, who would not 
tolerate incivility even from a Judge. 

Shortly after the evacuation of Charleston, Judge 
Burke, under the signature of Cassius, attacked with 
much point, and decided effect, the act^ of the Jack- 
sonborough Assembly against those who had submit- 
ted and taken British protections. I have always 
thought that the censures which he lavished on this 
occasion would not have been received so favourably, 
if obnoxious individuals had been allowed to plead in 
justification of their conduct, or if particular penalties 
had been attached to particular critnes. But contrary 
to every principle of justice, prejudice reigned with 
unlimited sway, and under the protection of influential 
friends, many escaped even censure, for the very acts 
for which others were banished, and fined to the full 
extent of their possessions. Wealth was too frequently 
regarded as an indication of crime ; and in committee, 
on the reading over the names of the accused, the cry 
of " a fat sheep; a fat sheep— prick him ! prick him !" 
was followed by immediate condemnation, unless some 
man of influence, or friend to huaianity, in pity, under- 
took to palliate the misconduct of the offender, and by 
his eloquence averted the blow which was to destroy 
him. In his last hours he exhibited the same humour 
and eccentricity that had distinguished him through 
life. 

On the day previous to his death, having been tap- 
ped by Dr. Irvine for a dropsy, he said, " well Irvine, 
what am I to expect; is the decree life or death." 
*' Life, my good fellow," said Irvine. You are an 



BURKE. 197 

Irishman, and will yet last a long time." " Then, by 
Jasus," said Burke, " I shall be the first thing that 
ever lasted long in this house, after being once put on 
tap." 



CAPTAIN RICHARD GOUGH. 

It is a tribute justly due to the independent spirit of 
Captain Richard Gough to record, that having in vain 
opposed proceedings so abhorrent to justice, as those 
already mentioned, he vacated his seat in the Jackson- 
borough Assembly, declaring, *' that he could never 
remain a v^itness to the condemnation of a man who 
was not allowed the privilege to state, in his own 
defence, the motives which had decided his conduct." 

The magnanimity of this gentleman on another oc- 
casion, is highly deserving of praise. Having been a 
prisoner, he had been thrown into irons, and treated 
with peculiar indignity. A change in the political oc- 
currences of the time, highly favourable to America, 
having taken place, many of the adherents of Britain, 
repenting the imprudence of their conduct, wished, by 
a full confession of error^ to be admitted to the rights 
of citizenship. An American, who had interested him- 
self very highly in favour of an individual subjected to 
the penalties of the Confiscation Law, making an 
appeal to the humanity of Cai)tain Gough, said, " I am 
sensible that it is only necessary for you to oppose the 
petition in his behalf, which will be presented to the 
Legislature, to ensure its failure." " Make yourself 
easy, then," was the generous reply. *' Give me the 
petition, I will present and suport it, and shall be happy 
if that prevents opposition from any other quarter. 



198 GOUGH. 

The war is brought to a happy conclusion — my resent- 
ments are no more." It gave additional lustre to this 
act of generosity, that a little before, while at supper 
WMth his aged mother, he had been fired upon and 
desperately wounded by a Tory party from the British 
garrison. 



EXEMPLARY CONDUCT OF THE CLERGY. 



It is a highly gratifying circumstance to perceive, from the perusal of 
the interesting " History of the Episcopal Church in South-Caro- 
lina,''^ by the Reverend Dr. Dalcho, that five only out of twenty 
oi the Clergy of that persuasion, adhered to the British cause. 

BISHOP SMITH. 

The late Bishop Smith shouldered his musket, and 
amidst scenes of the greatest danger, both by precept 
and example, stimulated to intrepid resistence. Made 
a prisoner at the surrender of Charleston, immediate 
banishment followed his captivity. Such was the ap- 
prehension of his influence, that, though ill and con- 
fined to his bed, a centinel placed over him, was not 
allowed to quit his chamber, till he was taken from it 
under a guard, to be transported to Philadelphia. 

The nature of my work permits me to speak of his 
political conduct alone. To his credit, however, I 
must state, that blessed with opulence, his charities 
were unbounded. The poor and the needy wept his 
departure with unfeigned sorrow. Benevolence was 
enthroned in his heart. His Clerical Brothers found 
in him a friend, and mourned in him a Father. Many 
charitable institutions were benefited, both by his 
exertions and by his liberality ; but the Clergy Society, 
which, with utility beyond the reach of praise, gives 



200 SMITH, P£;rcy and lewis. 

relief to the bereaved widow, and rescues the helpless 
orphan from the pangs of want and misery, originating 
with him, was, to his latest hour, fostered with pecu- 
liar delight. 



THE REV. DR. PERCY 

Frequently preached to the troops, encouraging 
them to intrepid exertions, and a patient endurance of 
the privations necessarily connected with their situa- 
tion. He was the first Orator who addressed the 
people on the Anniversary of our Independence. His 
steady conduct being highly offensive to the British 
authorities, he was ordered to relinquish his clerical 
duties, as soon as Charleston fell, under the penalty of 
a dungeon ; and to avoid persecution, retired to 
Europe. 



THE REV. MR. LEWIS, 

Of St. Paul's, was a firm advocate for Indepen- 
dence, and an indefatigable agent in promoting its 
accomplishment. Delivering a patriotic discourse on 
the text — " The Lord forbid that I should give the 
inheritance of my fathers unto thee ;" he became par- 
ticularly obnoxious to the British Commanders, was 
exiled to St. Augustine with many other Patriots, but 
was speedily separated from them, and shut up in the 
Castle, and till the period of his exchange, condemned 
to solitary confinement. 



PURCELL, TERQUAND AND WARREN. 201 



THE REV. DR. PURCELL 

Was equally firm in his principles ; and acting as 
Deputy Judge Advocate in the field, supported all the 
difficulties and dangers of campaigning, with exem- 
plary patience and intrepidity. 



THE REV. PAUL TERQUAND 

Served as a member in the First Provincial Con- 
gress, and distinguished himself, not only in his legis- 
lative capacity, but by his oratorical powers, and his 
animating address to that respectable body from the 
pulpit, and for which he received their unanimous 
thanks. 



THE REV. SAMUEL WARREN, 

Called by interesting concerns to Europe at the 
commencement of the Revolution, was tempted by all 
the arts of persuasion, and offers of liberal preferment, 
by a brother, a Dignitary in the established Church, to 
remain in England ; but, with a soul superior to all 
selfish consideration, he thought only of the good that 
might flow from his exertions in the cause of Liberty ; 
returned to America ; with unremitted zeal performed 
every duty, braved every danger, and both by precept 
and example, to the conclusion of the contest, pointed 
out the road to honour and renown. 

26 



202 SMITH. 



Nor is less praise due to the CIerfi;y of other deno- 
minations, who, with unshaken zeal and firmness, 
were reckoned among the most strenuous supporters 
of the Revolution. 

THE REV. JOSIAH SMITH, 

Pastor of the Independent Church, though ad- 
vanced to his 77th year, disdaining to receive the 
favour which would have been allowed him, of re- 
maining in Charleston, from an enemy who had 
wantonly violated the terms of capitulation, granted 
to the inhabitants, went into banishment with his 
family, and died an exile. 



THE REV. MR. TENNANT 

Stands pre-eminetly distinguished. He was born in 
New-Jersey, in the year 1740, and educated at the 
College of Princeton, where, in 1758, he received a 
bachelor's degree, and was two years after licensed to 
preach. He first settled in Connecticut, but after a 
lapse of ten years, accepted, on invitation, the pastoral 
charge of the Independent Church in Charleston, and 
arrived there in 1772. As a man of learning, eloquence, 
and piety, he was held in high estimation. It is my 
province to speak more particularly of his Revolution- 
ary services ; and here there is an ample field for 
praise. His life, from the earliest dawn of hostility, 
was devoted to the service of his country, and the 
whole tenor of his conduct gave unequivocal proof, 
that he considered religion, liberty, and happiness, im- 
plicated in her success. The vigour of his mind would 



TENNANT. 3D3 

not suffer him, under such circumstances, to act an 
inferior part. He boldly stepped forward the cham- 
pion of Liberty and Independence — with zeal and 
eloquence preached resistance, nor failed to support it 
with all his energies. As a Member of the Provincial 
Congress, and afterwards of the House of Assembly, 
he, in his legislative capacity, acquired great celebrity, 
and so forcibly impressed upon the minds of his col- 
leagues, the conviction of his superior and persuasive 
talents, that in conjunction with the Honourable Wil- 
liam Henry Drayton, he was delegated to visit the 
disaffected districts of the interior country; by the 
exercise of his abilities, to demonstrate to the misguided 
both the weakness and wickedness of their conduct ; 
and by dint of reason, to reconcile them to those 
patriotic measures which could alone save their coun- 
try from destruction. This was a service of extreme 
difficulty and danger. Supicion had exerted its bane- 
ful influence. Motives and designs were reciprocally 
attributed by the opposite parties to each other, of the 
most ungenerous nature and mischievous tendency. 
Camps were formed preparatory to open contention, 
and the whole country breathed the spirit of war. A 
conference, however, betwixt the leaders, put a tem- 
porary stop to hostility. The Loyalist engaged to 
remain in a state of neutrality, and both parties re- 
tired to their homes. The good that was expected 
from the commission of the Delegates, was not as eX" 
tensive as the government had anticipated ; but their 
eloquence was not without its effect. Many men of 
character and influence, were induced to sign the Asso- 
ciation, and renouncing their errors, became the steady 
supporters of the popular cause. 

To sum up his character as a Politician, it is no 
exaggeration to say, that resistance to oppression, and 
firmness in supporting the just rights of the people, 
were the cherished doctrines of his heart ; and to have 



20.4, T£1N!SA]\T. 

attained their accomplishment, he would have laid 
down his life rejoicing. 

The respect to his memory, by the Congregation 
over which he presided, is feelingly demonstrated by 
the inscription on his Monument, erected by them in 
their Archdale-street Church. 

In memory 

Of the Reverend WILLIAM TENNANT, A. M. 

Pastor of this Church, 

and principally instrumental in the 

erection of this building, 

dedicated to the worship of 

Almighty God, 

who died at the High Hills of Santee, 

August 11th, 1777, 
in the thirty-seventh year of his age. 
He was distinguished for 
' quickness of perception, 

solidity of judgment, 
energy and firmness of mind, 
for inflexible patriotism 
and ardent public spirit, 
for the boldness with which he enforced 
the claims of the Deity, 
and vindicated the rights of Man. 
As a Preacher, he was prompt, solemn, 
instructive and persuasive — 
of every social virtue, he was a bright example. 
^^ Blessed are the dead ivho die in the Lord.^^ 

His valuable life terminated while discharging a 
filial duty, bringing his aged and recently widowed 
mother from New Jersey to Carolina. 



FURMAN. 205 



THE REV. DR. FURMAN. 

With great delight I mention a faithful servant both 
of God and the Republic, who still lives an ornament 
and blessing to society. In the field a hero, in private 
life, I know no man, that by the uniform display of 
talent and of virtue, does greater honour to humanity 
than Doctor Furman, Strenuous in opposition to the 
invaders, he fought and he preached with energy and 
effect, and the recollection of his zeal to promote 
unanimity and steady resistance to the encroachments 
of an enemy, who but a little time since, would again 
have disturbed the tranquillity of his country, demon- 
strated that the patriot fire that warmed his youthful 
bosom, burns even in advanced life with all its pristine 
purity and eifulgence. 



CONDUCT OF OUR ALLIES, THE FRENCH. 



It is tribute of justice due to our Allies, the French, 
to state, that during our Revolutionary struggle for 
Freedom, they invariable endeavoured to harmonize 
with our citizens, relinquishing, on most occasions, 
with distinguished politeness, their own modes and 
prejudices, to conform themselves to the habits and 
customs of America. They did indeed carry their 
desire to please and conciliate to such an extent, that I 
remember, on one occasion, a French Officer being 
asked by General M'Intosh, (presiding at a Court 
Martial, and desirous to administer an oath, that his 
evidence should be given with impartiality) — '' Of 
what Religion he was ?" replied very readily — " The 
American, Sir ;" thinking, undoubtedly, that it was 
a duty to conform as much as possible to the religious 
opinions of the people in whose cause he had drawn 
his sword. And this appears the more probable, for 
time being allowed for reflection, and the question 
varied, by substituting ivhat faith, instead of what 
Religion, he exclaimed — C^est bien une autre affaire 
— Roman Catholique Apostolique, Mon General, 

It is needless to speak of their bravery. They were 
Frenchmen, and enthusiastically attached to the 
opinions imbibed in favour of Liberty and Republican- 
ism. Their intrepidity was exemplary, and gave them 
daily new claims to the admiration and gratitude of 
the people, whose rights and properties they had 



DE CARENDEFFEZ. 207 

pledged themselves to defend. To bring forward the 
examples that might be produced of the valour of 
individuals, v^^ould be to extend my volume far beyond 
the limits prescribed ; and in naming one, I might 
offend multitudes. Yet, there is a charm in gallantry 
when displayed in early youth, which is attended with 
irresistible fascinations; and, at a risk, I will subject 
myself to the imputation of partiality, rather than pass 
over a hw selected incidents that appear to have a 
peculiar claim to applause. 



BARON DE CARENDEFFEZ. 

At the siege of York, the young Baron de Caren- 
deffez, now an inhabitant of our city, then about the 
age of fifteen, was sent into the Magazine to distribute 
ammunition for the use of the French artillery, and 
while seated on a barrel of powder, saw a shell from 
the enemy fall within two feet of his position. The 
Soldiers who were in the Battery, expecting imme- 
diate explosion, ran off in every direction. The intre- 
pid youth remained unmoved. The expected catas- 
trophe, however, did not follow — the fuse of the shell 
was, in its flight, extinguished. This being perceived 
by the fugitives, the Battery was immediately reoccu- 
pied, when Captain Lemery, the commanding Officer, 
addressing himself to the youth, who still retained his 
seat, said — " You young rogue, why did you not fly 
the impending danger ? Why not embrace a chance 
for life ? " Because, Captain," he heroically replied, 
" my duty required that I should make a distribution 
of ammunition, and not desert my post, and fly like a 
poltroon !" 



203 ^^ BUYSSON. 



CHEVALIER DE BUYSSON. 

The chivalrous gallantry of the Chevalier De Buys- 
son, the Aid-de-Camp of the Baron De Kalb, cannot 
be too much admired. Perceiving his General fall, 
every idea of personal safety was abandoned ; and 
rushing towards him, he generously offered his own 
breast as a shield to the body of his expiring friend, 
till covered with wounds, and faint from the loss of 
blood, he was compelled to withhold resistance, and 
yielded up his sword to the enemy. 



THE CHEVALIER DUPLESSIS MAUDUIT, 

A YOUNG and gallant Frenchman, whose enthusiastic 
devotion to Liberty, had induced him, at the age of 
Vixteen, to undertake a journey into Greece, expressly 
to view the scenes where her defenders had so reso- 
lutely contended against the encroachments of tyranny 
and oppression, and who now, in his twentieth year, 
had drawn his sword in the cause of America, has the 
credit of having displayed the most romantic gallantry 
at the battle of Germantown. Perceiving the division 
of the army, to which he was attached, severely galled 
by a heavy and destructive fire from Chew's house, 
into which Colonel Musgrave, of the British army, 
had thrown himself with his regiment. He imme- 
diately brought up two pieces of artillery, (six-pound- 
ers) with the hope to dislodge them ; but speedily 
finding that the cannonade, from the size of the guns, 
produced no effect, he proposed to Colonel Laurens to 
set fire to the principal door of entrance, by carrying 



MAUPUIT. 209 

forward a quantity of combustible matter, and thus 
obtain access to the interior. The attempt was made, 
but without success. The heroic intrepidity of two 
dauntless spirits could not conquer impossibilities. 
Laurens approached so near, as actually to make a 
thrust with his small sword through a shot hole, at an 
Officer within the building, nor desisted from his 
efforts to force a passage, till a wound compelled him 
to retire. The Chevalier Mauduit attempted to gain 
admission through a window on the ground floor which 
he had forced, and actually saw an Officer, who reso- 
lutely opposed his entrance, killed by a musket shot, 
precipitately fired, and evidently intended for his 
bosom. Every hope of success having vanished, 
retreat was the only resource for security, but resolved 
rather to die, than incur ridicule by running off, he 
retired with slow and deliberate step, and more fortu- 
nate than his comrade, without the slightest injury. 

The laurels gained by this chivalrous youth, in the 
successful defence of the fortress at Red Bank, against 
a powerful detachment of Hessians, led on by Colonel 
Donop, were no less honourable to him. So certain 
were the assailants of victory, so confident of their 
own superiority, both in discipline and valour, that on 
their approach to the American lines, one of their 
Officers, advancing in front of his troops, exclaimed — 
*' The King of England orders his rebellious subjects 
to lay down their arms ; and they are warned, that if 
they stand the battle, no quarters whatever will be 
given." It was immediately answered — " Agreed ! 
The challenge is accepted ! There shall be no quar- 
ter granted on either side !" It is unnecessary to 
detail particulars of the action that immediately fol- 
lowed. The defeat of the Hessians was complete. 
Their leader, and a large proportion of the detach- 
ment fell. It might have been expected, after the 
threatening denunciation of vengeance held out, that 

27 



210 MAUDUIT. 

in just retaliation, indulgence might have been given to 
resentment; but, with victor}^ humanity regained its 
benign influence in every American bosom, and the 
vanquished experienced every kind and benevolent 
attention that could sooth their misfortunes, and teach 
them more highly to appreciate the courage and for- 
bearance of an enemy, against whom they were 
prepared to exercise such deadly animosity. The un- 
fortunate Donop, who fell mortally wounded, turning, 
when nearly in the agonies of death, to M. de Mau- 
duit, said with great expression of feeling — " My 
career is short. I die the victim of my ambition, and 
of the avarice of my King ; but in dying in the arms 
of honour, I have no regrets." 

I cannot quit the generous Mauduit without noticing 
his lamentable and untimely fate. On the 3d of 
March, 1791, the day previous to his assassination, 
the Baron de Carendeffez, with a few others of his 
friends, repaired to the Government House at Port-au- 
Prince, the spirit of revolt being then at its height in 
the Island of St. Domingo, to warn him of the dan- 
ger which threatened him, the storm ready to burst 
on his head, and emphatically said — " Your regiment — • 
the regiments of Artois and Normandie are in insur- 
rection — the sailors in the port, and every miscreant 
in the place, have sworn your destruction — believe 
the information we give you — quit this scene of horror 
-^— you cannot otherwise escape destruction !" " With 
dignity," he replied, '^ 1 know the risk that I run — - 
the danger to which I expose myself ; but honour bids 
me remain at my post. Death is my destiny — I ex- 
pect it. But, there stands my commander, (pointing 
out M. de Blanchelande) — if he bids me depart, I 
obey ; if he does not, I die on this spot !" He then 
added — " Remember, my friends, that I predict, that 
that scoundrel will save himself, leaving me to pay 
the forfeit." He judged with accuracy ; the General 



MAUDUIT, FLEURY AND DE KALB. 211 

fled to Cape Francois, leaving the brave Mauduit at 
the mercy of infuriate assassins, to whose ferocity he 
became an immediate victim. It was not long, how- 
ever, before he paid the price of so pusilanimous 
an abandonment. He sailed for France, but being 
arrested at the moment of his arrival, perished by the 
hands of the executioner. 



LIEUTENANT COLONEL FLEURY, 

Who had, on many previous occasions, displayed 
the most heroic gallantry, particularly distinguished 
himself at the storming of the British post at Stoney 
Point. How great the difficulties he had to encounter, 
in his approach to the Redoubt of the enemy, how 
invincible the resolution of the troops he commanded, 
to surmount them, may be justly estimated, when it is 
remembered, that Lieutenant Gibbon, who led the 
forlorn hope of Fleury's column, with the chivalric 
gallantry which characterized his entire conduct, re- 
moved the abbatis, and entered the post sw^ord in hand, 
losing seventeen out of the twenty heroes, attached to 
him on this perilous enterprize. History has attri- 
buted to the Lieutenant Colonel, the honour of having 
struck the colours of the enemy with his own hands. 



BARON DE KALH. 

Although a native of Germany, yet, from his long 
course of service in the armies of France, 1 cannot but 
consider the Baron as a Frenchman ; especially, as it 



212 DE KALB. 

appears more than probable, that during the entire 
period of his holding an American commission, he 
continued a pensioner of that government, and one of 
its most indefatigable agents. From his own represen- 
tations it is evident, that during the war of 1757, he 
had visited the Colonies of Great Britain, by the direc- 
tion of the Court of France, expressly to ascertain the 
I)oints in which they were the most vulnerable, and to 
discover how far it was practicable, by well-timed in- 
sinuations, and winning intrigue, to generate dissatis- 
faction, and excite a suspicious jealousy against the 
mother country, so as to shake their confidence in the, 
purity of her views, and beget and cherish a desire of 
asserting their independence. In political negotiations 
it cannot be doubted, but that its own peculiar interests 
and aggrandizement is the cherished object of every 
State. If there are any who believe that the conduct 
of France, in taking part with America in her struggle 
for Independence, proceeded either from attachment to 
her as a nation, or an admiration of the principles that 
had caused her to oppose the encroachments of Britain 
on her rights, their error is extreme ; since enmity to 
Great Britain, and the hope of profiting by her misfor- 
tunes, was the great first cause of her hostility, and, I 
conscientiously believe, the sole object of her wishes — 
the great end of her interference. There never existed 
a nation more pointedly distinguished than the French, 
by the felicitous talent of discovering the influences 
operating on the governments with which they were 
connected, studiously counteracting them where they 
militated against her wishes; encouraging and directing 
them wheresoever according with, and likely to pro- 
mote her own views. The great anxiety shown, on all 
occasions, by the Baron de Kalb, to secure the memo- 
yanda of passing events, which were written in cipher, 
regularly entered in a book, and transmitted to the 
French Ambassador at Philadelphia, give just reason 



DE KALB. 213 

to suppose that more was contained in his correspon- 
dence with that distinguished character, than he wished 
to meet the eyes of the associates who surrounded 
him. His connection with France was doubtless simi- 
lar to that of other officers of that nation, serving in 
America; the nature of which may be easily under- 
stood, by a reference to an intercepted letter from 
General Du Portail to the Count de St. Germain, 
Minister of War, dated " Camp at White Marsh, four 
miles from Philadelphia, November 12th, 1777," which 
may be found in Stedman's History of the American 
War, vol. 1. p. 390. Intent only on the great object of 
his mission, the transmission of secret intelligence to 
his trans-atlantic friends, and regardless of his obliga- 
tions to the government whose bread he ate, and whose 
character he was bound by every sense of duty To de- 
fend, we find him calumniating them without a blush, 
and boldly asserting, " it has not been owing to the 
good conduct of the Americans, that the campaign 
upon the whole has terminated rather fortunately, but 
to the fault of the English." Again, ^' before the war 
the American people, though they did not live in 
luxury, enjoyed in abundandance every requisite to 
make life comfortable and happy ; they passed a great 
part of their time in smoking, and drinking wine or 
spirituous liquors. Such was the disposition of the peo- 
ple. Sore against the grain, then, their sudden transfor- 
mation into soldiers, reduced to lead a life of hardships 
and frugality; nor will it be considered surprising, that 
they should prefer the yoke of the English, to Liberty 
purchased at the expense of the comforts of life." Still 
further; " you will be astonished, Sir, at this language, 
but such are these people, — who move without spring 
or energy, without vigour, without passion for a cause 
in which they are engaged, and which they follow- 
only as the impulse of the hand that iirst put them in 
motion directs. 1 here is a hundred times more en- 



214 DE KALB. 

thusiasm for this Revolution in any of our coffee- 
houses in Paris, than in all the thirteen Provinces 
united." Again ; " It is necessary, then, that France, 
to accomplish this Revolution, should furnish these 
people with every requisite to lessen the hardships of 
war. True, it will cost some millions, but they will 
be well laid out in annihilating the power of England, 
which, when bereft of her Colonies, without a navy, 
and without commerce, w^ill lose her consequence in 
the world, and leave France without a rival." Speak- 
ing of the policy of sending French troops to America, 
he adds, *' that would be the way to mar all. The 
people here, though at war with the English, (we see 
it every day,) in spite of all that France has done, and 
means to do for them, would prefer a reconciliation 
with the English, rather than receive, in force, the men 
in the world they most fear." And finally, concludes 
this precious epistle by saying, " I have perhaps, Sir, 
in my letter, exceeded what you required, but pardon 
the length of the dissertations I have gone into, from a 
desire to satisfy your wishes, and render my stay here 
as useful as it is in my power to make it." 

That " no man can serve two masters," we know 
from the very highest authority. Preferences will be 
given, and preference is injury. That these political 
adventurers would act with vigour against the com- 
mon enemy, there can be no doubt ; they would fight 
for America to repel the encroachments of Britain, but 
bring into competition the interests of France with 
those of America, and every wish for the prosperity of 
their adopted, would be lost in their devotion to their 
native country. Yet, while I mention these circum- 
stances, the more clearly to develope the decidedly in- 
terested views of France, and the services required of 
her agents, serving under the banners of iVmerica, 
although they necessarily diminish the claims of the 
Baron dc Kalb to the pure and disinterested patriotism, 



DE KALB. 215 

that, as a leader of an army contending for the most 
sacred rights of man, he mii^ht be supposed to possess, 
I allow him every possible merit as a soldier, and the 
most exalted claims to applause for the gallantry with 
which he fought; the unruffled temper and patient re- 
signation with which he viewed the approach, and met 
the stroke of death. Nor is he less to be applauded 
for the grateful recollection expressed for the exem- 
plary intrepidity of the Delaware and Maryland Regi- 
ments which he commanded, sending, even in the 
agonies of death, by his Aid-de-Camp, the Chevalier 
De Buysson, his warmest thanks for their heroic exer- 
tions, and expressing his delight, that though unsuc- 
cessful in battle, he had led into action men so highly 
meriting the palm of victory. 



THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE. 

The meritorious services of this gallant young noble- 
man, are too well known to every American, to need 
recapitulation here. He certainly appeared to engage 
in the Republican cause, with more enthusiasm, and 
to feel more genuine and sincere attachment to the 
citizens of the United States, than any foreigner in the 
service. He was brave almost to a fault; in executing 
orders, romantically so : but when intrusted with sepa- 
rate command, though possessing all the fire of youth, 
conducted himself with a degree of caution and pru- 
dence, that would have been creditable to the calm 
temper and circumspection of age. He was generous 
in the extreme. On his very first landing in Carolina, 
in testimony of his respect and high admiration of the 
gallant defence made by General Moultrie, of the pass 



216 DE LA FAYETTE. 

at Sullivan's Island, he presented him with clothing, 
arms, and accoutrements for one hundred men. When 
in command at the North, every officer serving under 
him received a present of a handsome sword ; and 
there was not a private in the line, who did not, by 
his liberal distribution of clothing and other comforts, 
reap the benefit of his sympatliy and benevolence. Full 
of ardour during the contest for victory; wheresoever 
an advantage was obtained, humanity appeared the 
leading feature iu his character, since he invariably 
showed far greater disposition to sooth than aggravate 
misfortune, i have, in another place, given a noble 
example of his forbearance, when storming one of the 
advanced redoubts of the British at York Town. In 
short, he possessed in so high a degree the character 
of an accomplished and perfect soldier, as to gain the 
confidence of his superiors, the affections of his equals, 
and the respect and veneration of all who served under 
him. It is no trifling compliment to say, that next to 
the Commander in Chief, and the intrepid Greene, no 
General stood higher in the public favour, or more 
constantly commanded the admiration of the army, 
than La Fayette. 



DISTINGUISHED NAVAL OFFICERS. 



It would be an unpardonable dereliction of dutyj 
did I neglect to mention the services of several Naval 
Officers, who, even from the very earliest period of the 
revolutionary struggle for Independence, gave strong 
indication, and flattering presage of that superior skill 
and spirit of enterprise, that has, in latter limes, so 
highly exalted the reputation of the American Marine. 
The field for encomium is extensive — the opportuni- 
ties for bestowing praise far greater than could have 
been expected, at a moment when the overwhelming 
power of the British Navy, appeared to render every 
effort to resist it chimerical. The first trump of war, 
however, appears to have been the signal for energy 
and active enterprise, calling into exertion, whatever 
the ardent impulses of patriotism could suggest, as 
beneficial to the public weal ; for, while the enemy 
still held their post at Boston, even in the harbour 
itself, in view of, and frequently under the very guns 
of the men of war, achievements of bold and hardy 
daring were accomplished, that Britons, with all their 
boast of superiority on the ocean, would have been 
proud to add to the chronicles of their Naval History. 
I shall select a few instances in support of my asser- 
tion, and could, with great facility, many others, did 
I not regard the proofs brought forward as amply 
vsufficient. 

28 



218 MANLY. 



CAPTAIN MANLY. 

At the mouth of the port of Boston, and frequently 
in full view of the British fleet, Captain Manly made 
many prizes. I would particularly mention a store 
ship, bound in, which had on board a thirteen-inch 
brass mortar, several pieces of brass cannon, several 
thousand small arms, and a complete assortment of 
ordnance stores and laboratory utensils. He took, at 
the same time, an armed sloop, serving her as a ten- 
der ; and shortly after, another fine ship and a snow of 
considerable value. The spirit of enterprise, encou- 
raged by success, he sailed in the privateer Hancock, 
on a cruise, and falling in with His Britannic Majesty's 
sloop of war Fox, compelled her to surrender. Some 
time after this, commanding the privateer Jason, he 
was attacked by two British privateers, the one of 
eighteen, the other of ten guns. He reserved his fire 
till he came close upon them — run his vessel betwixt 
the two, and by a well-directed broadside, fired into 
each, compelled them both to strike their colours and 
surrender. The Americans had already learnt to fire 
with deliberation and effect. Short as the contest was, 
the larger privateer lost thirty of her crew. 



CAPTAIN HARRADEN, 

Of the privateer Pickering, of sixteen guns, cruising 
near Sandy-Hook, fell in with a ship of fourteen guns, 
a brig of ten, and a sloop of eight guns, and after an 
action of one hour and a half, captured the whole. In 



HARRADEN, GEDDES AND JONES. 219 

the same cruise, he captured also, the Pomona of 
twelve, the sloop of war Hope of fourteen, and Royal 
George Cutter of fourteen guns. 



CAPTAIN GEDDES, 

In the Holker privateer, did incalculable mischief to 
the British trade. But changing into the Congress 
letter of marque, of Philadelphia, mounting twenty 
guns, encountered and captured His Britannic Ma- 
jesty's sloop of war Savage, of the same force. 



PAUL JONES, 

Sailing in the Ranger, with despatches to our 
Minister at the French Court, fell in with and took 
two valuable prizes on his passage ; and having quickly 
prepared his vessel for a cruize, entered the Irish 
Channel, landed and spiked thirty-six cannon mounted 
in battery at Whitehaven — encountered, and after a 
severe action, took the Drake sloop of war — and after 
an absence of twenty-eight days, returned to Brest 
with two hundred prisoners. His activity giving great 
increase to his reputation, he was appointed to the 
command of a small squadron, and sailed from France 
with the hope of intercepting the Baltic fleet returning 
to England. During his cruize he made many valu- 
able captures, and spread great alarm on the British 
Coast, threatening a descent, and exciting great alarm 
both at Leith and Hull ; and at length, falling in with 
the fleet which he sought, fought an action of such 



^20 JONES AND BARRY. 

desperate severity, that history affords no parallel to 
it. In the Bonne Homaie Richard of forty guns, he 
compelled the Serapis of forty-four, to strike, and 
took possession of her at the moment that his own 
ship sunk at her side, being so shattered by the obsti- 
nacy and long continuance of the conflict, that time 
was not allowed for the removal of the wounded, who 
had barely time to see the flag of their country floating 
triumphantly above that of their enemy, before they 
sunk into eternity ! 



CAPTAIN BARRY, 

While the British were in possession of Philadel- 
phia, Barry, with the boats of the Alliance frigate, 
which lay considerably higher up, passed the city with 
muflied oars, and proceeding down the river, near 
Port Penn, surprised and captured a British schooner 
of ten guns, and four large transports, without the loss 
of a man. 

In the year 1781, while on a cruize in the Alliance, 
he took the Alert of ten guns, the Mars of twenty and 
one hundred and twelve men, Minerva of ten guns and 
fifty-five men, and heroically closed his victories, by 
capturing two men of war sent out for the express 
purpose of destroying him. In the conflict he was 
yery severely wounded ; but increasing the eflbrts of 
his men by his animating example and harangues, the 
Atalanta of twenty guns and one hundred and thirty 
men, and Trepassay of fourteen guns and eighty men? 
w^ere compelled to surrender. 



BARNEY. 221 



CAPTAIN BARNEY. 

I HAVE received from a friend in Baltimore, a sketch 
of the life and achievements of this meritorious Offi- 
cer, that is highly worthy of attention, and replete 
with occurrences that could not fail to gratify every 
American Patriot ; but, as they chiefly relate to deeds 
of gallantry that have taken place at a later period, I 
must content myself, at present, with mentioning the 
action in the revolutionary war, that in the greatest 
degree exalted his reputation. I would, however, 
previously mention to his honour, that he was the first 
man who displayed the American Flag in Maryland, 
beating up for volunteers to join the expedition under 
Commodore Hopkins, intended against New-Provi- 
dence, and with such success, as to engage a crew for 
the Hornet, the vessel to which he was attached, in a 
single day. Great, indeed, was the variety of service 
in which he was engaged, and as fluctuating his suc- 
cesses and his mifortunes — a captive to-day — to-mor- 
row he triumphed in the arms of victory ; but, in all 
situations, and under every change, however eventful, 
supported a character of unblemished honour, and of 
an intrepidity that could not be exceeded. 

Early in the spring of 1782, the State of Pennsyl- 
vania, fitting out some small vessels to protect the 
Delaware Bay against the depredations of the Refugee 
barges, fitted out at New-York, appointed him to the 
command of a small ship, mounting sixteen six poun- 
ders, and carrying one hundred and ten men, called 
the Hyder Ally. In this vessel, giving convoy to a fleet 
proceeding down the Bay, he came to anchor near 
Cape May, waiting for a wind, that the vessels under 
his charge might proceed to sea, his instructions con- 
fining him to the special object of protecting them 



222 BARNEY. 

against the Refugee boats. Two suspicious ships and 
a brig making towards him, he ordered the convoy, by 
signal, to proceed up the Bay, which they did so suc- 
cessfully, that one only, which unfortunately grounded, 
fell into the hands of the enemy. There are two 
channels up the Bay. One of the ships, and the brig, 
followed closely in that which he had entered ; the 
other ship (a frigate) took the second, with the inten- 
tion of heading him, and cutting off every means of 
escape. The brig first approached him, fired her broad- 
side, and pressed forward in pursuit of the convoy. 
The ship then advanced within pistol shot ; a well- 
directed broadside from the Hyder Ally, caused no 
abatement in the vigour of her attack. She closed, and 
came very near on board. The Hyder Ally then 
crossed her hawse, and got entangled in her fore- 
rigging, and raking her by a continual fire of great 
guns and small arms, after a severe contest of twenty- 
six minutes, brought down her colours. His prize 
proved to be the General Monk, mounting twenty 
guns, nine pounders, and one hundred and thirty-six 
men, commanded by Captain Rogers. She lost in 
killed and wounded 63 men — 20 killed. Among the 
latter were the 1st Lieutenant, Master, Purser, Doctor, 
Boatswain and Gunner ; — among the wounded, the 
Captain, and every other officer (one midshipman ex- 
cepted.) The Hyder Ally had four men killed and 
eleven wounded. The Legislature of Pennsylvania, 
in testimony of their admiration of his gallantry, pre- 
sented him with a gold hiked sword, by the hands of 
the Governor of the State. The prize was purchased 
by the General Government, and Barney had the hap- 
piness to be informed by his friend, Robert Morris, 
that having added her to the navy of the United States, 
he was unanimously appointed to command her. 

I will mention particularly but one other naval 
combat. 



BIDDLE. 223 



CAPTAIN BIDDLE, 

In the Randolph, in one cruise from Charleston, 
took the True Briton, of twenty guns, and three other 
Jamaica men. But sailing a second time from that 
port, with a detachment of fifty men of the 1st South- 
Carolina Continental Regiment, who served as ma- 
rines, fell in with, and in the darkness of night, en- 
gaged the Yarmouth, a two decker of 64 guns. The 
contest was short ; the Randolph blew up, and of her 
crew, 315 persons, four only, who were taken up some 
days after on a piece of the wreck, escaped. Carolina 
lost several of her gallant sons, and particularly 
lamented Captain Joor, and the Lieutenants Gray 
and Simmons. 

The gallant Truxton, Dale, Decatur, (father of our 
late lamented Commodore,) Young, Robeson, Roberts, 
Keene, Hall, Foster, Williams, Hallet, Numan, Weeks, 
Waters, O'Brian, and Murray, performed services of 
the highest importance to their country, and gave 
examples of heroism that have not, and I trust never 
will be lost by their influences, to exalt the naval cha- 
racter of their country. 



CONDUCT OF THE WHIG LADIES. 



Having thus far progressed in my Anecdotes, I come to the dehghtful 
duty, though last not least attractive, of exhibiting instances of that 
magnanimity and intrepid firmness, that so pre-eminently distin- 
guished the fair daughters of Carolina. But here the hope of 
successful eflbrt forsakes me ; for, as often as I take up my pen to 
pay the tribute of applause so justly due to their merits, and strive, 
with becoming gratitude to record them, I fail in the attempt, and 
find myself deprived of every ability but that of admiring them. 

It is no idle compliment to assert, that to the [>atriot- 
ism of the ladies of South-Carolina, is in a great degree 
to be attributed the freedom of their country. The 
invasion of the enemy in 1780 had extended their 
authority over the whole State. Charleston had fallen. 
The entire Continental force, and the greater part of 
the North Carolina and Virginia line were prisoners. 
The disastrous surprises at Monk's Corner and La- 
neau's, and total defeat of Colonel Buford, had dis- 
sipated every prospect of effectual resistance. Some 
dauntless spirits, indeed, rose superior to calamity, but 
it must be acknowledged, that wearied out by hopeless 
warfare, and by accumulated misfortunes, the voice of 
the majority led to temporary submission. The enemy 
triumphing in success, and confident that opposition 
was at an end, no longer held out the lure of concilia- 
tion. Insult and arrogance became the order of the 
day, and adversity was aggravated by every variety of 
insolence that malice could invent, and tyranny inflict* 



CONDUCT OF THE WHIG LADIES, 225 

No spirit of moderation restrained the passions excited 
by what may be esteemed domestic conflicts, nor 
abated the virulence betwixt contending powers, which 
is the natural result of war. The most distinguished 
patriots whose age and superior wisdom, were sup- 
posed to influence public sentiments, were arrested 
on frivolous pretexts, and sent into exile. The young 
and active, impatiently waiting the hour of exchange, 
to resume their stations under the banners of their 
country, were crowded into prison-ships, as fit subjects 
of retaliation, should General Greene adhere to his 
purpose of avenging the murder of Colonel Hayne, by 
the execution of a British officer of equal rank. To 
aggravate misfortune, two irregular courts, founded in 
the spirit of military depotism, were established ; the 
Boards of Police and Sequestration, by these new 
energies were given to injustice and persecution, and 
their decisions prove, that tyranny never invented in- 
struments better calculated to destroy the peace of 
society.* 

* In the causes brougbt before the Board of Police, not the Lawyers only, 
but the Judges also took fees. On one occasioi\, a suitor, whose case was 
pending, expressing his fears to a friend, that the decree, in defiance of every 
principle of justice, would be against him — " Why do you not fee Sir Eger- 
ToJ^?" was the reply. " Because," rejoined the suitor, '' I know that my oppo- 
n€^ has already given him ten guineas." " Quick, then, to his house," said 
the friend, *' present a fee of twenty guineas, and rest assured, that your suc- 
cess will be complete. My opinion rests on my experience of his civility." 
The character of Sir £. Lf.igh, is so well known in Carolina, that it is suffi- 
cient to establish the infamy of a Court, to say that he presided at it. Thomas 
Phepoe, pre-eminent in iniquity, and his active agent, declared in Court — 
" That he had appeared to take part with America, by the advice of his friend, 
Chief Justice Gordon, the more effectually to bewilder the councils of the 
Legislature, of which he was a member, and to gain intelligence of the de- 
signs of Government, the more effectually to betray them." I would not be 
supposed to implicate Lieutenant Governor Bull, Colonel Innis, Mr. James 
Simpson, and other members in the iniquitous decrees of these men. The two 
last had left the Bench before Sir Egeuton Leigh presided at it. The first 
did not act as a Judge till after his death. 

.29 



226 MRS. MOTTE. 

Under such accumulated evils, that manly spirit 
which alone could secure success, might have sunk, but 
for the cheering smiles and intrepid firmness of the 
fair sex, who by sharing the calamities of their suffer- 
ing countrymen, taught how to oppose and subdue 
them. Intent by precept and example to frustrate the 
machinations of the enemy, whatsoever the shape 
whicJi they assumed, defiance was bid to their threats, 
and the invitations to engage in scenes of gaiety and 
dissipation, indignantly rejected. The dungeons of the 
Provost, the crowded holds of the prison-ships, were 
anxiously sought, and every delicate attention bestovv- 
ed on the victims who inhabited them, that sympathy 
could suggest ; every consolation that could mitigate 
suffering, and encourage hope ; every persuasion that 
could animate to virtuous perseverance, and secure 
unyielding fidelity to the glorious cause of Liberty. 

The instances of magnanimity that occur to memory 
are innumerable ; but, a few only can be mentioned, 
and my greatest difficulty is, to select examples, where 
the whole have such exalted claims to admiration. 



MRS. JACOB MOTTE. 

The patriotic enthusiasm of Mrs. Jacob Motte, de- 
mands particular notice. When compelled by painful 
duty. Lieutenant Colonel Lee informed her, " that in 
ordt^r to accomplish the immediate surrender of the 
British garrison occupying her elegant mansion, its 
destruction was indispensable," she instantly replied, 
" the sacrifice of my property is nothing, and I shall 
view its destruction with delight, if it shall in any 
degree contribute to the good of my country." In 



MRS. HEXJV^ARD. 227 

proof of her sincerity she immediately presented the 
arrows by which combustible matter was to be con- 
veyed to the building. 



MRS. THOMAS HEYWARD. 

Nor is the firmness of MrS: Thomas Heyward less 
w^orthy of admiration. An order having been issued 
for a general illumination, to celebrate the supposed 
victory at Guilford, the front of the house occupied by 
Mrs. Heyward and her sister, Mrs. George Abbot Hall, 
remained in darkness. Indignant at so decided a 
mark of disrespect, an officer (I hope for the sake of 
humanity, and the honour of the military character, 
unauthorized) forced his way into her presence, and 
sternly demanded of Mrs. Heyward, " how dare you 
disobey the order which has been issued ; why. Madam, 
is not your house illuminated ?" *' Is it possible ?br 
me. Sir," replied the lady, with perfect calmness, " to 
feel a spark of joy ? Can I celebrate the victory of 
your army, while my husband remains a prisoner at St. 
Augustine." " That," rejoined the officer, " is a mat- 
ter of little consequence ; the last hopes of rebellion 
are crushed by the defeat of Greene : You shall illu- 
minate." " Not a single light," replied the lady, 
*' shall be placed wnth my consent, on such an occa- 
sion, in any window in the house." " Then, Madam, 
I will return with a party, and before midnight level 
it to the ground." ** You have power to destroy. Sir, 
and seem well disposed to use it, but over my opinions 
you possess no control. I disregard your menaces, and 
resolutely declare, / will 7iot illuminate.^'' Would to 
God that I could name the man, capable of thus in- 
sulting a helpless female, that I might hold him up to 



228 ' MRS. HEYWARD. 

the scorn of the world ! Mrs. Hey ward was graceful 
and majestic in person, beautiful in countenance, an- 
gelic in dispostion. None but a ruffian could have 
treated her with indignity. On the anniversay of the 
surrender of Charleston, May 12th, 1781, an illumina- 
tion was again demanded, in testimony of joy for an 
event so propitious to the cause of Britain. Mrs. G. 
A. Hall, who laboured under a wasting disease, lay at 
the point of death. Again Mrs. Hey ward refused to 
obey. Violent anger was excited, and the house was 
assailed by a mob with brickbats, and every species of 
nauseating trash that could offend or annoy. Her reso- 
lution remained unshaken, and while the tumult con- 
tinued, and shouts and clamour increased indignity, 
Mrs. Hall expired.^ 



MRS. REBECCA EDWARDS. 

The Orator of the Society of the Cincinnati of 
South-Carolina, at the celebration of the National 
Festival on the 4th of July, 1797, thus extols the 
magnanimity of Mrs. Rebecca Edwards : — ** The 
Spartan mother delivering his shield to her son depart- 
ing for the army, nobly bade him, ' Return with it or 
upon it.' The sentiment was highly patriotic, but 
surely not superior to that which animated the bosom 
of a distinguished female of our own State, who, 

* I would mention to the honour of the Town-Major Fraser, that he waited 
on Mrs. Hey ward, and strongly expressing his regret for the indignities that 
had been offered her, requested permission to repair the damage done to the 
house, but she resolutely refused, assuring him, that though sensible of his 
attention, and thankful for it, the efforts of the ruling authorities to obliterate 
the recollection of insults, which they ought to have prevented, could not 
avail. She could forgive, but never forget them- 



MRS. EDWARDS. * 229 

when the British Officer presented the mandate which 
arrested her sons as objects of retaliation, less sensible 
of private affliction, then attached ^to their honour, 
and the interests of her country, stifled the tender feel- 
ings of the mother, and heroically bade them despise 
the threats of their enemies, and stedfastly persist to 
support the glorious cause in which they had engaged. 
That if the threatened sacrifice should follow, they 
would carry a parent's blessing, and the good opinion 
of every virtuous citizen along with them to the grave. 
But, if from the frailty of human nature, (of the possi- 
bility of which she would not suffer an idea to enter 
her bosom) they were disposed to temporize, and ex- 
change their liberty for safety, they must forget her as 
a mother, nor subject her to the misery of ever behold- 
ing them again." 



MISS MARY ANNA GIBBES. ^ 

During the invasion of Provost, while the British 
army kept possession of the sea-board, a Hessian bat- 
talion occupied the house and plantation of Mr. 
Robert Gibbes, on the banks of the Stono. To excite 
general alarm, and more particularly to annoy the post, 
two gallies from Charleston, ascending the river in 
the night time, unexpectedly opened a heavy fire of 
grape and round shot on the house and neighbouring 
eiu'-ampment. The family, who had been allowed to 
remain in some of the upper apartments, were now 
ordered to quit the premises, and Mr. Gibbes, a mar- 
tyr to infirmity, and his numerous family, set our at 
midnight for an adjoining plantation. When beyond 
the reach of the shot, which had incessantly passed 



230 MISS GIBBES. 

over the heads of the party, an inquhy being made 
respecting the safety of the children, it was found, 
that in the hurry and terror of the moment, a distant 
relation, a boy as yet in early infancy, had been left 
behind. The servants were entreated to return for 
him, but refused ; and he must have been left to his 
fate, had not the heroism and affection of Miss Mary 
Anna Gibhes^ then but thirteen years old, inspired her 
with courage to fly to his rescue. The darkness of 
the night was profound, yet she returned alone, the 
distance being fully a mile ; and after a long refusal, 
having by tears and entreaties, obtained admission 
from the centinel, ascended to the third story. There 
she found the child, and carried him off in safety, 
though frequently covered with the dirt thrown up by 
the shot, and greatly terrified by their constant ap- 
proach to her person. Public gratitude is due to this 
intrepid action, since the gallant Lieutenant Colonel 
Fenwick, so much distinguished by his services in the 
late war, was the person saved. 



MRS. BREWTON. 

The Anecdote which I am now to relate, shows 
from what trivial circumstances persecution often arose. 
Mrs, Breivt07i, (since Foster) one of the most amiable 
and enlightened of the whig ladies, was an inmate of 
Mrs. Motte's family, at the time of the destruction of 
her house. Meeting with her shortly after the signing 
of the preliminary articles of peace at Philadelphia, 
I inquired — '' How it had happened, that she, a help- 
less, unprotected widow, without any charge of im- 
l)roper conduct, has so far incurred the enmity of the 
British Commanders, as to have been arrested without 



MRS. BREWTON. 231 

ceremony, and hurried unprepared, into exile." She 
answered — " That she knew no act of her's which 
had merited such ungentlemanly and inhuman treat- 
ment." Entering, however, into conversation relative 
to the siege and surrender of Fort Motte, she gave at 
once a clue to the transaction. While the American 
forces were at a distance, Major M^Pherson, the com- 
mander of the post, suffered Mrs. Motte and her 
family to remain, and an appartment was allowed for 
their accommodation. But when the post at Thomp- 
son's, but a little removed from him, was attacked and 
carried, anticipating the fate which awaited him, imme- 
diate removal was not only advised, but insisted on. 
At the moment of departure Mrs. Brewton seeing a 
quiver of arrows, which had been presented to Mr. 
Motte by a favourite African, said to her friend, " I 
will take these with me, to prevent their destruction 
by the soldiers." With the quiver in her hands, she 
was passing the gate, when Major M'Pherson, drawing 
forth a shaft, and applying the point to his finger, said, 
" what have you here, Mrs. Brewton." " For God's 
sake. Major, be careful," she replied, " these arrows 
are poisoned." The ladies immediately passed on to 
the out-house, which they were now to inhabit. In 
the siege which directly followed, when the destruc- 
tion of the house was determined upon, and missiles 
eagerly sought for by Lieutenant Colonel Lee, for 
conveying the fire to the shingles, these arrows being 
remembered, were presented by Mrs. Motte, with a 
wish for the happy accomplishment of the end pro- 
posed. It was afterwards known, that the first arrow 
missed its aim, and fell at the feet of the CoQimandant, 
who taking it up, with strong expressions of anger, 
exclaimed, " I thank you, Mrs. Brewton." The second 
arrow took effect, and set fire to the roof, when the 
brisk discharge of a six pounder being maintained by 
Captain Finley, in the direction of the stair-case, every 



232 MRS. BREWTON. 

effort to extinguish it proved fruitless, until, from the 
apprehension of the roof falling in, the garrison were 
compelled to surrender at discretion. « General Greene 
arriving soon after, paid to Major M'Pherson the 
tribute of applause due to his excellent defence, de- 
claring, " that such gallantry could not fail to procure 
for him a high increase of reputation." This compli- 
ment, however, does not appear to have soothed the 
mortified soldier, for, walking immediately up to Mrs. 
Brewton, he said, " to you^ Madam, I owe this dis- 
grace ; it would have been more charitable to have 
allowed me to perish by poison, than to be thus com- 
pelled to surrender my post to the enemy." This 
speech alone, accounts for the enmity against Mrs. 
Brewton; but by the playfulness of a lively disposition 
she had offended another individual, whose clamours 
could only be appeased by severe retribution. An 
Ensign named Ainiel, a Philadelphian by birth, who 
had joined the British, made it his chief occupation to 
provoke the ladies of the family by taunts and invec- 
tives against their countrymen. He particularly de- 
lighted to bid them admire his prowess, while cutting 
off the heads of pine saplings, w-hich, according to the 
whim of the moment, he Renominated Greene, Marion, 
Sumter, ^c. ^^c. After the surrender of the post, Mrs. 
Brewton contriving to join this youth, near the scene 
of his former bravadoes, sportively requested that he 
would again treat her with an exhibition of his talent 
in smiting the foe. " But valiant Captain," she added, 
*' where' is your sword ? Such a hero as you would 
only have yielded it in death ! And where are your 
resentments ? Did I not see you but a little time since, 
bowing to earth before the very man you have so often, 
in idea, shortened by the head. Is Marion no more to 
feel the power of your arm, nor Sumter be compelled 
to bite the dust ? Smother your anger, most ferocious 
vSir, and lot the generosity which you have expe- 



MRS. BREWTON. 233 

rienced, make you more merciful hereafter." Doubt- 
less the irony of this speech was treasured up in his 
memory, and was one cause of the severity exercised 
towards this lady. Shortly after this Major Hyrne, 
appointed a Commissioner to negotiate an exchange of 
prisoners, being on his way to Charleston, Mrs. Brew- 
ton, anxious to see her friends in the garrison, obtained 
permission to accompany him. On entering the town 
she was met by an officer, who anxiously inquiring, 
" what was the news in the country," she replied, 
" that all nature smiled, for every thing was Greene 
down to Monk's Corner." Her hon mot was not 
unnoticed ; an order for her immediate departure was 
issued, and, escorted at a late hour beyond the gates, 
she was directed to return no more. On the following 
day, however, from caprice, or probably to confine 
her influence to more narrow bounds, she was recalled, 
and for a time was left without molestation. It was 
her lot, however, perpetually to encounter difficulties. 
An officer departing for the interior calling on her, 
politely offered to take charge of her commands to her 
friends. " I should like to write," replied Mrs. Brew- 
ton, " but have no idea of having my letters read at the 
head of Marion's Brigade." The officer departed, but 
wjthin a few days repeated his visit, to thank her, he 
asserted, for the rapidity with which she had com- 
municated the intelligence of his movements, as he 
had actually been taken by Marion, and returned to 
town on parole. Nor is it improbable, that an incident 
still more trivial, might have contributed to her exile. 
The liveliness of Mrs. Brewton was very fascinating, 
and the more liberal and enlightened among the Bri- 
tish, who met with very little of wit or intellect, anx- 
iously sought her society. Walking in Broad-street, 
in deep mourning, according to the fashion of the 
Whig ladies, an English officer joined her at the mo- 
moment that a crape flounce was accidentally torn 

30 



234 MRS. BREWTON. 

from her dress. She picked it up, and passing the 
house of John Rutledge, the absent Governor, then 
occupied by Colonel Moncrief, she exclaimed, " where 
are you, dearest Governor; surely the magnanimous 
Britons will not deem it a crime, if I cause your house 
as well as your friends, to mourn your absence." Say- 
ing this, she tied the crape to the front railing, and 
departed. Whether her companion mentioned the 
circumstance, or that her conduct was observed by 
persons within, (which is more probable,) it is certain 
that, in a few hours after, she was arrested and sent 
off to Philadelphia. 



MRS. CHANNING. 

Shortly after the commencement of the war, the 
family of Dr. Channing, then residing in England, 
removed to France, and sailed in a stout and well- 
armed vessel for America. They had proceeded but 
a little way, when they were attacked by a privateer. 
A fierce engagement ensued, during which Mrs. Chan- 
ning kept the deck, handing cartridges, aiding the 
wounded, and exhorting the crew to resist until death. 
Their fortitude, however, did not correspond with the 
ardour of her wishes, and the colours were struck. 
Seizing the pistols and side arms of her husband, she 
threw them into the sea, declaring that she would 
rather die, than see him surrender them to the enemy. 



MRS. ELLIOTT. 235 



MRS. CHARLES ELLIOTT. 

With peculiar gratification I will now speak of a 
lady in the highest degree entitled to admiration. A 
Patriot by inheritance, being the daughter of Mr. Tho- 
mas Ferguson, one of the most intrepid and strenuous 
promoters of the Revolution, Mrs. Charles Elliott 
appeared to consecrate every thought, and every hour 
of existence, to the interests of America. Undaunted 
amidst the storms that desolated her country, her 
energies increased with the pressure of calamity. Her 
benevolence to the distressed, her persuasive eloquence, 
skilfully employed to inspire the timid with confidence, 
and to strengthen the resolves of the firm, were never 
more conspicuous, than when success was most des- 
paired of. Beneath her roof the sick and wounded 
not only found shelter, but the tenderest attentions — 
the poor shared her purse — the persecuted the conso- 
lations of her sympathy. She daily visited her captive 
friends ; and by her cheering smiles and animating 
conversation, revived and sustained hope, inspiring a 
confidence of success equal to their most ardent de- 
sires. While such her conduct towards her friends, 
her influence over many of the superior Officers in the 
British army, was astonishing, Harsh and unbending 
to others, there was a charm attached to Mrs. Elliott, 
that rendered them the slaves of her will. Her fasci- 
nations forbid denial. Possessed of natural ease of 
manners, great cheerfulness in conversation, and a cap-> 
tivating sportiveness of disposition, asperities were so 
much softened, that when compelled to solicit favours, 
she seldom applied in vain. The advantage to our 
army arising from her influence, was both salutary and 
extensive ; and the supplies drawn from the British, 
Garrison in consequence of it, of the highest impor° 



236 MRS. ELLIOTT. 

tance. I do not know an Officer who did not owe 
to Ker some essential increase of comfort, and very 
frequently gratuitously bestowed. She was a just 
representative of generosity personified. I have said 
that her requests were rarely denied. In one in- 
stance, however, her application, though for mercyj 
was unavailing. The impressive petition, in behalf 
of the unfortunate Colonel Hayne, presented by the 
ladies of Charleston, and attributed to her pen, was 
rejected. It merited a different fate ; but, when we 
recollect that it was addressed to Lord RawdoUf 
astonishment ceases. 

When the steady Patriot, Mr. Thomas Ferguson, 
was first arrested and put on board a transport, to be 
sent into exile, his daughter, Mrs. Charles Elliott, was 
in the country, but on receiving the intelligence, imme- 
diately repaired to Charleston. Her earnest solici- 
tation to bid her parent a tender adieu, being favou- 
rably attended to, she hastened on board the vessel in 
which he was confined, but had scarcely entered the 
cabin, when oppressed both with grief and sickness, 
she fainted and fell. The Captain, much alarmed, 
recommended a thousand remedies in rapid succession. 
When saying in conclusion, " I have a box of exquisite 
French liqueur — a cordial would certainly revive her," 
she started from her couch and exclaimed, " Who 
speaks of the French — God bless the nation !" and 
turning to her father, with much feeling continued — 
" Oh, my father, sink not under this cruel stroke of 
fate — let not oppression shake your fortitude, nor the 
delusive hope of gentler treatment cause you, for an 
instant, to swerve from your duty. The valour of 
your countrymen, aided by the friendly assistance of 
France, will speedily dissipate the gloom of our imme- 
diate prospects — we shall experience more propitious 
times — again meet, and bq happy !" 



MRS. ELLIOTT. 237 

^^ There was in the Legion of Pulaski, a young 
French Officer of singularly fine form and appearance, 
named Celeron^ as he passed the dwelling of Mrs. 
Elliott, a British Major, whose name is lost, signifi- 
cantly pointing him out, said — " See, Mrs. Elliott, one 
of your illustrious allies — what a pity it is, that the 
hero has lost his sioord,^^ ** Had two thousand such 
men," replied the lady, " been present to aid in the 
defence of our city, think you. Sir, that I should ever 
have been subjected to the malignity of your observa- 
tion." At the moment, a Negro, trigged out in full 
British uniform, happened to pass — " See, Major," 
continued she, *' one of your allies — bow with gra- 
titude for the service received from such honourable 
associates — caress and cherish them — the fraternity is 
excellent, and will teach us, more steadily to contend 
against the results." 

In the indulgence of wanton asperities towards the 
patriotic Fair, the aggressors were not unfrequently 
answered with a keenness of repartee that left them 
little cause for triumph. 

The haughty Tarleton, vaunting his feats of gallan- 
try to the great disparagement of the Officers of the 
Continental Cavalry, said to a lady at Wilmington, " I 
have a very earnest desire to see your far-famed hero, 
Colonel Washington," " Your wish. Colonel, might 
have been fully gratified," she promptly replied, " had 
you ventured to look behind you after the battle of the 
Cowpens." It was in this battle, that Washington 
had wounded Tarleton in the hand, which gave rise to 
a still more pointed retort. Conversing with Mrs. 
Wiley Jones, Colonel Tarleton observed — " You ap- 
pear to think very highly of Colonel Washington ; and 
yet I have been told, that he is so ignorant a fellow, 
that he can hardly write his own name." " It may 
be the case," she readily replied, " but no man better 
than yourself, Colonel, can testify, that he knows how 
to make his markJ^ / 



258 MRS. HALL, ELLIOTT AND PINCKNEY. 



MRS. DANIEL HALL, 

Having obtained permission to pay a visit to her 
mother on John's Island, was on the point of embark- 
ing, when an officer stepping forward, in the most 
authoritative manner demanded the key of her trunk, 
" What do you expect to find there ?" said the lady. 
" I seek for treason,''^ was the reply. " You may 
save yourself the trouble of search, then," said Mrs. 
Hall — ''You may find a plenty of it at my tongue^ $ 



MRS. CHARLES ELLIOTT. 

An ofiicer, distinguished by his inhumanity and con- 
stant oppression of the unfortunate, meeting Mrs. 
Charles Elliott in a garden adorned with a great 
variety of flowers, asked the name of the Camomile, 
which appeared to flourish with peculiar luxuriance. 
" The Rebel Flower,^^ she replied. " Why was that 
name given to it ?" said the officer. ** Because," re- 
joined the lady, " it thrives most when most trampled 



MRS. CHARLES PINCKNEY. 

To Mrs. Pinckney, the wife of Colonel Charles 
Pinckney, a British officer of rank once said — " It is 
impossible not to admire the intrepid firmness of the 
ladies of your country. Had your men but half their 
resolution, we might give up the contest. America 
would be invincible." 



MRS. ELLIOTT AND MRS. HOLMES. ^39 



MRS. SABINA ELLIOTT. 

So much were the ladies attached to the whig inte- 
rest, habituated to injuries, and so resolute in support- 
ing; them, that they would jocosely speak of misfor- 
tunes, though at the moment severely suffering under 
their pressure. Mrs. Sabina Elliott having wit- 
nessed the activity of an officer, who had ordered the 
plundering of her poultry houses, finding an old mus- 
covy drake, which had escaped the general search, 
still straying about the premises, had him caught, and 
mounting a servant on horseback, ordered him to 
follow and deliver the bird to the officer, with her 
compliments, as she concluded, that in the hurry of 
departure, it had been left altogether by accident. 



^ 



MRS. ISAAC HOLMES. 



Among the patriots selected for transportation to St. 
Augustine, was Mr. Isaac Holmes. The imperious 
call on him at early dawn, to quit his chamber, and 
deliver him&lf up to the guard who waited to carry 
carry him off, caused him to descend the stairs when 
but partially dressed. His gentle wife, apj)alled by no 
fears, exhibiting no symptoms of despondency, had 
followed him in silence. The mandate being given 
for departure, she handed him his coat, and with un- 
daunted resolution said, " take it, my husband, and 
submit. Waver not in your principles, but be true to 
your country. Have no fears for your family; God is 
good, and will provide for them." 



240 MRS, SHUBRICK. 



MRS. RICHARD SHUBRICK. 

Here was, indeed, a heroine to be proud of. Her 
eyes sparkled with feeling and vivacity, while her 
countenance so plainly bespoke her kindness and 
benevolence, that sorrow and misfortune instinctively 
sought shelter under her protection. There was an 
appearance of personal debility about her, that ren- 
dered her peculiarly interesting ; it seemed to solicit the 
interest of every heart, and the man would have felt 
himself degraded who would not have put his life at 
hazard to serve her. Yet, when firmness of character 
was requisite, when fortitude was called for to repel the 
encroachments of aggression, there was not a more in- 
trepid being in existence. I will present a noble instance 
of it. An American soldier, flying from a party of the 
enemy, sought her protection, and was promised it. 
The British pressing close upon him, insisted that he 
should be delivered up, threatening immediate and 
universal destruction in case of refusal. The ladies, 
her friends and companions, who were in the house 
with her, shrunk from the contest, and were silent ; 
but undaunted by their threats, this intrepid lady 
placed herself before the chamber into which the un- 
fortunate fugitive had been conducted, and resolutely 
said, — " To men of honour the chamber of a lady 
should be as sacred as the sanctuary ! I will defend 
the passage to it, though I perish. You may succeed, 
^nd enter it, but it shall be over my corpse." " By 
God," said the officer, " if muskets were only placed 
in the hands of a few such women, our only safety- 
would be found in retreat. Your intrepidity, Madam, 
gives you security, from me you shall meet no further 
annoyance." 

Nor is this the only instance of her unconquerable 
fortitude. At Brabant, the seat of the respectable 



MRS. SHUBRICK. 241 

and patriotic Bishop Smith, a Sergeant of Tarleton's 
Dragoons, eager for the acquisition of plunder, follow- 
ed the Overseer, a man advanced in years, into the 
apartment where the ladies of the family were assem- 
bled, and on his refusal to discover the spot in which 
the i)late was concealed, struck him with violence, in- 
flicting a severe sabre wound across the shoulders. 
Aroused by the infamy of the act, Mrs. Shubrick, start- 
ing from her seat, and placing herself betwixt the 
ruftian and his victim, resolutely said, " place yourself 
behind me Murdoch, the interposition of my body shall 
give you protection, or I will die:" then, addressing 
herself to the Ser^^.eant, exclaimed, '' O what a degra- 
dation of manhood, what departure from that gallantry 
which was once the characteristic of British soldiers. 
Human nature is degraded by your barbarity ; — but 
should you persist, then strike at me, for till I die, no 
further injury shall be done to te/i." The Sergeant, 
unable to resist such commanding eloquence, retired. 
The hope, however, of attaining the the object in 
view, very speedily subjected the unfortunate Murdoch 
to new persecution. He was tied up under the very 
tree where the plate was buried, and threatened with 
immediate execution, unless he would make the dis- 
covery required. But although well acquainted with 
the unrelenting severity of of his enemy, and earnestly 
solicited by his wife to save his life by a speedy con- 
fession of the place of deposit, he persisted resolutely, 
that a sacred trust was not to be betrayed, and actually 
succeeded in preserving it. When complimented at 
an after period on his heroic firmness, he asserted, that 
he was strengthened in his resolution by the recollec- 
tion that a part of the plate belonged to the churchy 
and that he should have considered it as sacrilege, had 
he suffered it, though a weakness of disposition, to fall 
into the hands of robbers. 

31 



242 MRS. IZARD. 



MRS. RALPH IZARD, 

During the period when the British were confined 
within very narrow limits, in the neighbourhood of 
Charleston, Mrs. Ralph Izard, of Fair Spring, residing 
near Dorchester, and within the range of their excur- 
sions, whenever they ventured beyond their lines, was 
frequently subjected to annoyance, but by the suavity 
of her manners, and polite attention to the officers who 
commanded, had happily preserved the plantation from 
destruction. Mr. Izard, who was distinguished by his 
activity, acting as Aid-de-Camp to the commanding 
officer of the Light Troops, was at home, when one of 
these parties appeared, and had scarcely time to enter 
a clothes-press, when the house was surrounded and 
fdled with British soldiers. They harf been apprised 
of his visit, and their object was to make him a prisoner. 
A search was therefore commenced, and menaces held 
out, that unless he voluntarily surrendered, a torch 
should drive him from the place of his concealment. 
The composure of Mrs. Izard, at such a moment, was 
astonishing; she betrayed no symptoms of apprehension, 
and though treated with more than usual indignity, an 
attempt being made to force her rings from her fingers, 
and much valuable property plundered in her presence, 
preserved her accustomed politeness, and behaved 
with such urbanity, as to induce the belief that the 
information communicated was incorrect, and the 
party were drawn off. Mr. Izard now quitted his 
hiding place, and rapidly passing the Ashley, gave 
notice of the proximity of the enemy. He chose a 
happy moment for his escape, for speedily returning, 
the soldiers immediately sought Mrs. Izard's chamber, 
and burst open the press, which they had not before 
disturbed, when missing their object, they again re- 



MRS. IZARD. 243 

tired. On the alarm given by Mr. Izard, all on the 
other side of the river were on the alert. A body of 
Cavalry was pushed across Bacon's Bridge, who 
speedily overtook the retiring enemy, and so com- 
pletely routed them, that few only of their number 
returned within their lines to tell of their disaster. 
The wardrobe of Mr. Izard, consisting of Parisian 
dress coats, and much of the finery of his gayer days, 
with which several of these marauders had sportively 
arrayed themselves, was recovered, and handsomely 
presented by him to the victors, who had so rapidly 
revenged the interruption of his visit to his family. 

The contrivances adopted by the ladies, to carry 
from the British Garrison supplies to the gallant de- 
fenders of their country, were highly creditable to 
their ingenuity, and of infinite utility to their friends. 
The cloth of many a military coat, concealed with 
art, and not unfrequently made an appendage to female 
attire, has escaped the vigilance of the guards, ex- 
pressly stationed to prevent smuggling, and speedily 
converted into regimental shape, worn triumphantly 
in battle. Boots have, in many instances, been relin- 
quished by the delicate wearer to the active Partisan. 
I have seen a horseman's helmet concealed by a well 
arranged head-dress, and epaulettes delivered from the 
folds of the simple cap of a matron. Feathers and 
cockades were much in demand, and so cunningly hid, 
and handsomely presented, that he could have been no 
true Knight, who did not feel the obligation, to defend 
them to the last extremity. 



While such the heroism of the Whig Ladies, among 
those who, favouring opposite principles, became the 
intimate associates of the successful invaders, there 
was a wide distinction of conduct and character.— 



244 MRS. M'CULLOCH. 

Whore peculiar merit calls for admiration, I should 
consider it unpardonable to withhold it. I have often 
heard the venerable Mrs. Barnwell of Beaufort, the 
mother of the patriotic brothers of that name, declare, 
and the accuracy of her statement has recently been 
confirmed by the respectable Mrs. Robert Gibhes, ihat 
while mirth and revelry invited to scenes of pleasure 
and dissipation, the good and benevolent Mrs. MCul- 
lochi was more frequently to be met with in the houses 
and society of the distressed, assuaging the afflictions 
of disease, and administering comfort to the captive, 
than in the gayer circles that surrounded her. Fol- 
lowing the fortunes of her husband to Europe, her 
attachment to her country was never diminished ; and 
falling prematurely a vicitm to disease, solicited and 
obtained a promise from her respectable father, that her 
remains should rest in the tomb of her ancestors. 

There was another lady, whose name circumstances 
of peculiar delicacy compel me to withhold. Did I 
reveal it, merited encomium might prove oifensive to a 
modesty that is invincible. Led, from the political 
creed of her friends and family, to favour the British 
interests, it never caused her, for an instant, to cherish 
illiberal animosity, or harbour a thought inconsistent 
with the purest dictates of humanity. If she engaged 
in scenes of gaity, it was evident from the calm tenor 
of her conduct, that it was more from necessity than 
choice. She could not consider the period, when her 
country was bleeding at every pore, a season of joy 
and festivity. Every act of oppression was abhorrent 
to her nature ; and when the noble Hayne became a 
victim of political animosity, she wept his fate as she 
would have done that of a martyr. The benevolent 
feeling that distinguished her early life, has, in. no 
degree, lost its lustre ; and though now living much in 



AND OTHERS. 245 

retirement, commands a respect and admiration, that 
proclaims her an honour and ornament to her country. 

Connected with her by close ties of consanguinity, 
and still more by the most generous sympathies of 
benevolence, another lady, young, amiable, and intel- 
ligent, shewed every disposition lo assuage the afflic- 
tions of the unfortunate. She married immediately 
after the war a British officer, who settled in Carolina, 
when unhappily, death arrested her honourable career, 
and robbed society of one of its greatest ornaments. 

It would be ingratitude in me, who knew the value 
of their friendship, in the hour of the deepest distress, 
not to say, that in the benevolence of Dr. Baron's 
family, the oppressed and broken spirit was ever sure 
to meet sympathy and consolation. The generous 
exertions of this amiable man, unceasingly employed 
to soften the asperities of oppressive power, as far as 
his influence could prevail — his liberal and gratuitous 
offer of advice and medicine to the afflicted and penny- 
less, gave him unbounded claim to praise, and justified 
that ardent attachment to him, which caused his death 
in the circle of our society, to be regarded as a public 
•calamity. 



STRICTURES 

ON THE 

INJUDICIOUS CONDUCT OF THE BRITISH COMMANDERS 
IN THE SOUTHERN STATES. 



The injudicious conduct of the British commanders 
subsequent to the capture of Charleston, has been the 
subject of pointed animadversion, even by their own 
historians. Had the politic and generous Carlton been 
the victor, and possessed tlie power of directing the 
measures of government, instead of the austere and 
unbending ConvwaUis, the difficulties to America in 
establishing her Independence, would have been in- 
creased beyond calculation. 

I have frequently heard General Wayne declare, that 
while he commanded a division of the army on the 
retreat from Quebec, that the evil he most dreaded, 
was the arrival in his camp, of men who had been 
prisoners with the enemy. Since these, after having 
experienced the most kind treatment, furnished with 
comfortable clothing, and dismissed by the Comman- 
der in Chief, without the imposition of any conditions 
for the regulation of their future conduct, never failed 
so gratefully to acknowledge his forbearance and ge- 
nerosity, that rapid desertion was the immediate con- 
sequence. 



STRICTURES ON THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 247 

The severity exercised by General Howe towards 
American prisoners, being the topic of conversation 
among some officers, who had been taken in Canada 
by Sir Guy Carlton, General Parsons, who was pre- 
sent, exclaimed, " His inhumanity delights me." — 
" Why, so ?" (was the immediate inquiry) " You, 
gentlemen," said Parsons, " have been kindly treated 
by a generous enemy. Say, would you be inclined to 
fight against him ?" The answer was, " No ! not if 
it was possible to avoid it." " Such," added Parsons, 
" would have been the reply of the troops taken by 
Howe, had he treated them with kindness ; but, now 
we are confident that his barbarity will raise us another 
army." 

Gates too, according to Gordon, had been repeat- 
edly heard to say, *' Had General Howe treated his 
prisoners and the inhabitants of Jersey, when subdued, 
with as much humanity and kindness as Sir Guy 
Carlton exercises towards his prisoners, it would have 
proved fatal to the Americans,* 



* I had fondly hoped, when speaking thus favourably of the character of Sir 
Gut Carlton, that I had attributed to him no other virtues than such as he had 
an indisputable right to claim. That /^o/icy had been the leading principle in his 
conduct towards the Americans who fell into his power, and became his prisoners, 
I could not doubt ; but seduced by the appearance of his generous sympathy in 
their misfortunes, I had constantly indulged the belief, that motives of a more 
noble and generous nature were not without their influence ; and that, although 
his duty to his Sovereign compelled him to act with energy to accomplish the 
subjugation of the revolted Colonists, yet, that a clear perception of the justice 
©f the cause in which they had engaged, and generous admiration of the ardour 
with which they contended for their liberties, had led him to temper his triumphs 
with compassion, and to mitigate the sufferings of an enemy whose motives he 
venerated, though he could not openly approve them. Glad to find an oppor- 
tunity of bestowing praise, I eagerly embraced it, having no regret, but that 
with the fairest field for the exercise of benevolence, our enemies had so little 
profited by it — so rarely availed themselves of their ability to show, that, 
though resolute to subdue, they had not forgotten to be merciful. I am sorry to 
say, tliat circumstances imperiously compel me to acknowledge the precipitancy 
of ray judgment. An extract of a letter received from a gentleman of the 
hightest respectability, a man incapable of fostering an unjust prejudice, and 



248 STRICTURES ON 

What might have been the consequence, if equal 
wisdom had swayed the British commander in South- 
Carolina, it appals me to think of. Fatigued by the 
toils of war, dispirited by reiterated disasters, the 
prospect of success but glimmering at a distance, and 
by many altogether despaired of, had the newly sub- 
mitting inhabitants been suffered to enjoy the sweets of 
repose, and benefits of the security guaranteed by 
capitulation — had kindness been substituted for op- 
pression, and persuasion used in lieu of force, although 
I have no doubt but that Independence would ulti- 
mately have been gained, yet it must have been, at a 
more remote period, and by far greater sacrifices, both 
of treasure and blood. But, they felt all the debasing 
influences of despotic power ; and deluded by the 
fallacious hope, that victory had crushed the spirit of 
opposition, that every spark of Liberty had expired, 
and that, however burdensome the yoke, the people 
were sufticiently humbled to bear it, no restraint was 

whoso liberality of sentiment would never permit to sanction a calumny, is to 
this effect : 

" 1 wish to warn you against holding up Lord Dorchester (Sir Guy Carl- 
ton) as a British worthy. His conduct can be so clearly developed, by all who 
lived at the days of his exhibitions of his opposite characters, that your history 
will gain no credit by your propensity for impartiality, no doubt sincere. 

" His conduct at Quebec was hypocritical and Machiavelian. It was dictated 
by the motive of seduction. He thought he could dazzle the wavering by an 
apparent generosity and benevolence towards our unfortunate prisoners. The 
blaze was but temporary, for every one of intelligence saw through its phos- 
phoric radiance. I heard no exclamation from those who were not misled by 
false lights: but *' temco Daiiaos, et dona ferenies." I was in Congress, at 
Princeton, when he threw off the mask, being the Commander in Chief at New- 
York, after the preliminary treaty of peace, and left to cap the climax of British 
hauteur and illiberality. Every arrangement required by the treaty, or the 
amity of a liberal and gentlemanly mind, he violated. 1 could give you a number 
of facts in proof: one only is sufficient. His letters and correspondence of 
every kind, were so insulting, haughty, impolitic, and insufferable, that by a 
resolution of Congress, to w^hich I gave my assent, and heartily promoted, our 
Secretary was directed to send back his letters unopened, and inform him that 
no further correspondence would be held with him. His littleness, and bitter 
malignity was shown in every step he took." 



THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 249 

imposed on aggression, and exactions insisted on, too 
grievous for endurance. Thus, with consciences 
ready to acquit them of every obligation, that it ap- 
peared inconvenient to keep, without the slightest 
consideration paid to the opinions of the parties the 
most interested, paroles, which had been granted by 
ca})itulation, were withdrawn,* and menaces held out — 
" That all who were found in arms, opposing the 
Royal authority, should not only be deprived of pro- 
perty, but subject to corporal punishment ;" and fur- 
ther declared — ** That as it was evident that resist- 
ance must prove nugatory, every hope of essential aid 
being lost, it was expected, that all who could bear 
arms, should assume them in support of the established 
government^ A more tyrannical measure could not 
have been conceived of, nor one adopted, more des- 
tructive to the prospects and true interests of Brita' 
Anxious, as I have stated, to remain in peace a' 
retirement, little disposition appeared on the i- 
the inhabitants, to engage again in scenes of hostili.^ 
but, to be called upon at once to renounce long and 
fondly cherished opinions — to resist in arms, the very 
men with whom they had been a little before asso- 
ciated, endeared too, in many cases, by friendship and 
consanguinity, and to give their aid in forging the 
chains, which were to hold their country in perpetual 
bondage, was an insult, that roused to action every 
dormant faculty, and nerved every arm for opposition 
and revenge. " Force us into the field," was the 
universal cry, " and our choice is made. We will 
die under the banners of our country !" 

* Stedman, p. 199, vol. 2, says—" The Proclamation of Sir Henry Clin- 
ton, without their consent, abrogated the paroles that had been granted, and 
in one instant, converted the inhabitants either into Loyal subjects or Rebels. 
Policy required that they should have been altered, rather at their own appli- 
.'ration, individually; than by the arbitrary fiat of the Commander in Chief' 

32 



250 STRICTURES ON 

When Colonel Peter Horry once said to General 
Marion, *' I am afraid that our happy days are all gone 
by," he replied, " Do not cherish such idle fears — our 
happy days are not gone by. Had the enemy wit 
enough to play a generous game, we should be ruined ; 
but with them humanity is out of the question. They 
will treat the people with severity, rouse opposition in 
every quarter, and send recruits to our standard, till 
they accomplish their own destruction." 

COLONEL ISAAC HAYNE. 

The revocation of these paroles caused the untimely 
fate of the gallant Colonel Hayne. The motives which 
induced him to resume his arms, and most interesting 
particulars relative to his capture and execution, are 
related by Dr. Ramsay, in his History of the Revolu- 
tion of South-Carolina, mut:h in detail, but he has 
omitted to mention some facts which appear to me 
peculiarly interesting, and worthy of record. 

Irregularities in the mode of conducting the war, in 
the highest degree disgraceful to the American cause, 
had frequently occurred. That these resulted, for the 
most part, from excessive provocation on the part of 
the enemy, and lawless excesses encouraged towards 
the whig inhabitants of the South, cannot be denied, 
and as acts of retaliation can alone be palliated, even 
with a shadows of excuse.* No man lamented them 

*I would not willingly enter into details of the sanguinary warfare, which, 
at this period, prevailed in the Southern EHvision of the State, but in support 
of the correctness of the statement I have made, will present two lamentable 
instances of it. Captain Duharty, a most intrepid soldier, and determined 
Whig, having, on Provost's invasion, blown up Fort Lyttleton,\\here he com- 
manded, was hastening with the Beaufort Company of militia by the inland 
passage, to aid in the defence of Charleston, when, halting on John's Island, his 
party, by the treachery of an individual, was betrayed, and in a great mea- 
sure, either destroyed or made prisoners. He himself escaped, and finding 
Beaufort, on his return to the South, occupied by the British, sought safety in 



THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 261 

with greater sincerity than Colonel Hayne, for none 
more anxiously wished the American character to 
be free from reproach. Soon, then, as solicited 
hy his neighbours, and the inhabitants generally, of 
the District, to resume a hostile position, to become 
their leader, and direct their operations against the 
enemy, he made an honourable and open declaration: 
" That he could only be induced to comply with their 
wishes, by obtaining a solemn promise from all who 
were to serve under him, that an immediate stop 
should be put to every unnecessary severity; a desi- 
deratum the more to be insisted upon, as he was 
resolved that exemplary punishment should be inflicted 
on every individual who should indulge in pillage, or 
commit any act of inhumanity against the foe." A 
copy of the address made to his soldiers on this occa- 
sion, was found on him at the period of his captivity ; 
but although it forcibly expressed his abhorrence of 

concealment Marked as a particular object of vengeance:, from the energy 
of his character, every exertion was made for his destruction. A Captain 
Pendabvis was particularly active in pursuit, and having discovered the place 
of his retreat, surprised, and with circumstances of peculiar cruelty, put him to 
death, suffering his Lieutenant Patterson, with more than savage barbarity, 
ere yet the vital spark had expired, to disfigure and mutilate the bkeding 
corpse. Messrs. Lkacraft and Talbird, the friends of the deceased, who 
were with him when surprised, escaped and retired into the interior country, 
but speedily hearing that the standard of opposition was raised by Colonel Har- 
ding, returned, and were present at the capture of the Fori at Pocotaligo. Dis- 
appointed in not meeting their sanguinary persecutor among the prisoners, Mr. 
Leacraft, accompanied by an associate named Bett£RSoj?, set out in search 
of him^ and finding him on his plantation, in company with his Lieutenant, by 
a rifle ball which passed directly through his heart, laid him dead as he fled 
from him, and immediataly sabringthe intimidated Patterson, sacrificed him 
also to his reveuge. Ai>other and truly distressing occurrence took place in 
the neighbourhood of Colonel Havne. Mr. John Inglis, a young Scotchman 
of exemplary conduct and character, was shot during the darkness of the 
night through mistake — the individual who did the deed bitterly lamenting it 
as he had been his schoolfellow and companion but a little before at Inveraess ; 
candidly avowing, that he meant to kill Colonel Thomas Inglis, who had 
brought him to the foot of the gallows on some trifling occasion, and would 
but for the interposition of a superior officer, have hanged hlia. 



252 STRICTURES ON 

crime, and was replete with sentiments that did honour 
to his humanity, it availed not to soften the rigour ot 
persecution, nor in the slightest degree to mitigate the 
severity of the punishment denounced against him. 
When the paper which contained this honourable tes- 
timony of generous feeling was presented to Major 
M'Kenzie, who sat as President of the tribunal before 
which Colonel Hayne was arraigned, he, with great 
expression of sensibility, requested the prisoner " to 
retain it till he should be brought before the Court- 
Martial that was to determine his fate," assuring him, 
" that the present Court were only directed to inquire, 
whether or not he acknowledged himself to be the in- 
dividual who had taken protection." It is unnecessary 
to add, that this trial was never granted. Lord Raw- 
don reached the city from the interior country, and at 
his command an order for immediate execution was 
issued. Little did the sympathy that melted every 
heart to tenderness — little did the pathetic address of 
the lovely daughters of the soil, calculated to move 
even th(^ bosom of obduracy, avail. Heedless of the 
prayers and solicitations of his afflicted friends and 
relatives, deaf to the cries of his children, who even 
with bended knees interceded for mercy, insensible to 
the dictates of humanity, his resolution was fixed as 
adamant, and a hero was sacrificed. 

A gentleman of veracity, who on this occasion vainly 
flattered himself that an execution was not seriously 
to be apprehended, from which no present good nor 
future advantage could possibly arise, has often de- 
clared that the Secretary, Harry Barry, assured him, 
" that his cherished expectations would be disappoint- 
ed, for that the opinions of Lord Rawdon were immu- 
table ; and that since his fiat had been death, execu- 
tion would inevitably follow. 

« Yet this man has become a God '.• 



THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 253 

And because the pusillanimity of the Duke of Rich- 
mond occasioned him to shrink from an accusation, 
which, having made, he was called upon by every 
principle of justice and manly virtue to support, he is 
deemed a hero, and without the slightest imputation of 
criminality, regarded as free from every reproach.^ 
1 would mention, that immediately previous to the 
commencement of the Revolutionary War, this noble- 
man was in Italy, and in habits of intimacy with a 
gentleman of our country,t who was afterwards sent 
by Congress to the Court of Tuscany, then governed 
by a branch of the House of Austria, the better to con- 
ciliate the good will of the Emperor of Germany 
towards America. The language of Lord Rawdon 
was, at that i)eriod, altogether favourable to the cause 
of Liberty. He approved our resistance, and cordially 
wished us success. How little his subsequent conduct 
corresponded with his declarations, and conformed to 
these sentiments, it is scarcely necessary to state. 
While the hope of conquest remained to Britain, no 
man was more indefatigable in his efforts to achieve its 
accomplishment; and as a soldier, he justly acquired a 
very high degree of rei)utation. Yet how lost must we 
consider him to every sense of the duty which he owed 
to his king and to his country, when it is remembered, 

** The Duke of Richmond called the attention of the House of Lords, to the 
inhuman execution of Colonel Hayne, the particulars of which had been for- 
warded to him by Mr, John Bowman. Lord Rawdon, arriving in Europe, 
denied the charge, threatening to call on the Duke for personal satisfaction, 
unless an immediate apology should remove the stain from his injured honour. 
The Duke knew full well the justice of the charge. He was personally ac- 
quainted with Mr. BowMAS, had often sought information from him relative to 
American aflfairs, and had never any cause to question his veracity) but his 
courage at the moment must have been at a low ebb. He hesitated indeed on 
the inconsistency of his conduct ; but ultimately averred, " That he had re- 
ceived his information from one Boxoman, whom he knew nothing about. He 
was, he confessed, rash in his charge, and solicited pardon for having made it." 

\ RaI-PH IzarP: Sen. Esq. 



2S4 STRICTURES ON 

» 

that he retired from command at the very period that 
his services were most required to contend against the 
increasing difficulties of the station, leaving the conduct 
of the army to men miserably deficient in talent, and 
altogether unequal in energy to meet the exigencies of 
the times. And why was this done? Not on the plea 
of health, which he would willingly have insinuated, 
by a fruitless effort made to procure from a physician 
of distinguished talent, a certificate of his inability to 
continue in the field ; but, from a clear perception of 
the events which the current of success in the affairs of 
America, directed by General Greene, was spe»"dily to 
produce, and a tender, irresistible solicitude, Platonic 
we must suppose, from the great purity of his charac- 
ter, to give to the wife of his truly civil and courteous 
friend protection across the Atlantic* 

It will be recollected, that on his passage to Europe, 
Lord Rawdon was captured by the French fleet, has- 
tening to the Chesapeake, and on board of one of their 
vessels sent to France. At Paris he again rnet with a 
part of the family with which he had once been inti- 
mate in Italy, and hearing in every society t!je severity 
exercised towards Colonel Hayne reprobated, as 
equally impolitic and unjust, unblushingly insinuated, 
*' that contrary to his opinion, it had been urged, and 
insisted upon by the Commandant of Charleston." 
But can this calumny be believed ? Can an accusation 

Lord Rawdon applied, but in vain, to Dr. Alexander Garden, a Physician 
©f high reputation, for a certificate, testifying his inability to continue in the 
field. This statement is made on the authority of Mr. James Penman, a Bri- 
tish subject of great respectability, who further assured the author of these 
Memoirs, that the anger of Dr. Garden was so highly excited by the scan- 
dalous dereliction of duty by Lord Rawdon, that on the manifestation of a 
design by many tories, to pay him the compliment of a farewell address, he 
boldly protested against it; declaring, that if they would draw up a remon- 
strance, reprobating his determination to quit the army at a moment that he 
knew that there was not, in the Southern service, a man qualified to command 
it, hix name should be the first inserted. 



THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 255 

so improbable be tolerated ? Charged as Colonel 
Balfour has been with severity, he has never been 
considered as thirsting for blood ! No execution had 
disgraced his administration in Charleston. At Cam- 
den, where Lord Rawdon commanded, they w^re too 
frequent to excite surprise. Had Colonel Balfour 
wished the death of his prisoner, would he not, in the 
first instance, have commanded it ? He had the power 
to do so. The imperious orders of Lord Cornwallis 
would have sanctioned the act, and at his nod the 
victim must have suffered. Yet he remained for several 
weeks uninjured; strictly guarded, it is certain, but 
with due attention to his rank and to his sufferings; 
but Lord Rawdon arrived, and the influences of 
Heaven-born mercy were extinguished. Colonel 
Hayne, as the object of his deadly hate, was con- 
demned, and suffered with the patience and fortitude 
of a martyr,* while from his tomb a flarpe arose, which 
widely diffused, gave constant increase to the spirit of 
revolt, till the expulsion of the enemy caused justice 
to triumph, and confirmed the Independency of the 
Union. 

Such a man was Lord Rawdon. Can it, then, 
be attributed to prejudice or malignity that I deny his 
right to the honours heaped upon him, and exhibiting 

* Colonel Lee gives the following affecting narrative of the last scene of 
his life : — " Accompanied by a few friends, he marched with unruffled serenity 
through a weeping crowd, to the place of execution. The sight of the gibbet 
occas'onpd a momentary expression of agony and dismay. He paused — but 
immedi utely recovering his wonted firmness, moved forward. At this instant, 
a friend whispered his confidence, that he would exhibit an example of the- 
firmness with which an American could die. " I will endeavour to do so," 
was the reply of the modest Martyr. Never was intention better fulfilled. — 
Neither arrogatinr superiority, nor betraying weakness, he ascended the cart 
unsupported an<l unappalled. Having talten leave of his friends, and com- 
mended his infput family to their protection, he drew the cap ovet his eyes, 
and illustrated, by his demeanor, that death in the cause of our country, even 
on a gallows, 'jannot appal the virtues of the brave. 

" C^nt k crime quifuit la honic et non pas rechafaud." 

COKSEILLE. 



256 STRICTURES ON 

him in his proper colours to a deceived and infatuated 
nation, exclaim with the Poet, 

*' Ye Gods it doth amaze me, 
A man of such a feeble temper, should 
So get the start of this majestic world, 
And bear the palm." 

The frequent allusion made in the subsequent part 
of this work, to the violation of the Capitulation of 
Charleston, and the consequences resulting from it, 
require that a more particular statement should be 
given of the acts of injustice and oppression particularly 
complained of. But it appears altogether unnecessary 
for me to write a line on the subject. An extract from 
the eloquent speech of Governor Rutledge, delivered 
to the Legislature at Jacksonborough, will fully detail 
them. The statement may perhaps, at the present day, 
be considered as highly coloured, and dictated by the 
strong impulses of political prejudice and party feeling, 
but when the fair and impartial statements which 
1 shall bring into view are considered, when the in- 
stances are detailed, not only of the irritation produced 
by the violence of individuals, but of oppression sanc- 
tioned by authority, it will be seen that it is founded 
upon a basis of truth that cannot be controverted. 

Governor Rutledge, eloquently animadverting on the 
rigorous and unjustifiable conduct pursued by the Bri- 
tish authorities, thus spoke to the Assembly: — "Re- 
gardless of the sacred ties of honour, destitute of the 
feelings of humanity, and determined to extinguish, if 
possible, every spark of freedom in this country, the 
enemy, with the insolent pride of conquerors, gave 
unbounded scope to the exercise of their tyrannical 
disposition, infringed their public engagements, and 
violated the most solemn engagements. Many of our 
worthiest citizens, without cause, were long and closely 
confined — some on board of prison-ships, and others 
in the town and castle of St. Augustine ; their pro- 
perties disposed of at the will and caprice of the 



THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 257 

enemy, and their families sent to a different and distant 
part of the Continent, without the means of support. 
Many who had surrendered prisoners of war, were 
killed in cold blood. Several suffered death in the 
most ignominous manner, and others were delivered 
up to savages, and put to tortures, under which they 
expired. Thus, the lives, liberties, and properties of 
the people were dependent solely on the pleasure of the 
British officers, who deprived them of either or all, on 
the most frivolous pretences. Indians, slaves, and a 
desperate banditti of the most profligate characters, 
were caressed and employed by the enemy to execute 
their infamous purposes. Devastation and ruin marked 
their progress, and that of their adherents ; nor were 
their violences restrained by the charms or influence of 
beauty and innocence; even the fair sex, whom it is 
the duty of all, and the pleasure and pride of the brave 
to protect, they, and their tender offspring, were victims 
to the inveterate malice of an unrelenting foe. Nei- 
ther the tears of mothers, nor the cries of infants, 
could excite in their breasts pity or compassion. Not 
only the peaceful habitations of the widow, the aged, 
and the infirm, but the holy temples of the Most High 
were consumed in flames, kindled by their sacrilegious 
hands. They have tarnished the glory of the British 
arms, disgraced the profession of a British soldier, and 
fixed indelible stigmas of rapine, cruelty, perfidy, and 
profaneness on the British name." 

CAPITULATION. 

" Art. IV. The militia now in garrison, shall be permitted to re* 
turn to their respective homes, as prisoners on parole ; which parole, 
as long as they observe, shall securathem from being molested in 
their property by the British troops." 

" Art. IX. All civil officers, and the citizens who have borne arms 
during the siege, must be prisoners on parole ; and with respect to 
their property in the city, they shall have the same terms a§ are 
granted to the militia."' ' 

.33 



258 STRICTURES ON 

Proceeding in my strictures on the conduct of the 
British commanders, I would briefly advert to the 
mode adopted by them for strengthening their mibtary 
force, declaring it equally impolitic and inhuman. At 
an early period of the war, it had been considered 
expedient to raise Provincial Corps. The more effec- 
tually to accomplish it, commissions were distributed, 
and rank established according to the number of re- 
cruits produced by the candidates who wished to 
obtain them. No questions were asked with regard 
to character — it was mew, not morals that were in 
demand. The intriguer, in consequence, who could, 
by the liberality of his purse, the arts of insinuation, 
or cajoling of any kind, produce soldiers, secured the 
highest appointment. From such men, with the cur- 
rent of success in their favour, little of moderation 
could be looked for ; their object was to better their 
fortunes ; and nought appeared so propitious to the 
accomplishment of their desire, as a determined oppo- 
sition on the part of their adversaries. Submission 
effectually destroyed their hopes — resistance sanctioned 
oppression — the profession of allegiance called for 
indulgence — the term Rebel, gave licence to plunder 
with impunity. Can it be wondered at, then, that far 
less inclination was shown to conciliate, than con- 
demn ? I disdain every feeling of prejudice ; and in 
a contest, where great diversity of opinion was to be 
looked for, willingly grant the due tribute of praise 
to all who, conscientiously adopting principles, steadily 
supported them. Far be it from me, to censure with- 
out discrimination the adherents to the cause of Bri- 
tain. Many of the officers of the Provincial Corps, 
were pure in character, and are to be named with 
respect. They were the decided enemies of our 
cause, but free from the pollution of insatiable avarice; 
and in the hour of victory, alive to the impulses of 
humanity, they forgot not that they tvere men. Their 



THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 259 

zeal and activity in the cause in which they had en- 
gaged, were of the highest utility to our enemies, and 
leads to the developenient of a melancholy fact, that 
in almost every instance ivhere our armies have been 
foiled in action, the opposition proceeded from our 
own countrymen. 

At Savannah, the defenders of the Spring-Hill Re- 
doubt, where the gallant Tawse fell, were Americans. 
The Garrison of the post at Augusta, so long and 
obstinately maintained by Browne, were Americans, 
Ninety-Six was preserved to the British by Cruger 
and Green, commanding the Neiv-Jersey Volunteers 
and Delancy^s Regiments, both composed of native 
Americans, The occupation of the brick building at 
Eutaw, by the same Cruger and his Provincials, could 
alone have saved the British army from destruction. 
Allen's, Skinner's, Browne's, Hamilton's, Simcoe's, 
and other American Corps, greatly distinguished them- 
selves by their bravery, and were comparatively gene- 
rous and merciful. The stigma remains on Tarleton^s 
Legion alone, that as often as they gained an advan- 
tage, and triumphed in success, the virtue of humanity 
was lost. 

But far greater injury was done to the cause of 
Britain, by the latitude allowed by the established 
authorities to the marauding corps of M'Girth, Fan- 
ning, Huck, and others, which could not fail to in- 
crease the spirit of opposition, and deadly hate to a 
government that would sanction their barbarities. To 
detail the deeds of horror perpetrated by this merciless 
banditti, would revive recollections, that for the honour 
of human nature, had better be buried in oblivion. 
Suffice it to say, that notwithstanding solemn conven- 
tions, that surrender should secure protection from 
injury, death was made the constant attendant on 
victory. Thus, at the close of the year 1781, Captain 
Turner and twenty men, after receiving the most 



^60 STRICTURES ON 

solemn assurances,* that they shoold be treated as 
prisoners of war, were deliberately murdered. Colo- 
nel Hayes and Captain Williams, with fourteen of 
their followers, were, in like manner, after surrender- 
ing, cut to pieces in cold blood. The activity and 
cool intrepidity of Mr. John Hunter, at the period a 
mere youth, but in latter times, distinguished as an 
enlightened le^^islator, saved him from the merciless 
vengeance of Fanning. Ordered for immediate exe- 
cution, he. had reached the foot of the fatal tree on 
which he was to suffer, and appeared to be alone in- 
tent on the exercise of his devotions, when, observing 
a very spirited horse within his reach, he, by sudden 
exertion, freed himself from confinement, leapt into 
the saddle, and putting the animal to his speed, though 
followed by a shower of bullets, escaped uninjured. 

Another cause of injury to Britain, arose from the 
fallacious promises held out in the Proclamations of 
their commanders. In North- Carolina, the pledge of 
oblivion for offences, of permanent protection to per- 
son and property, and of liberal rewards to all who 
should take up arms in the service of the King of 
Great Britain, to men already partial in their attach- 
ment to his cause, held out temptations that were irre- 
sistible ; and it is well known, that at Hillsborough, 
seven effective companies were raised in one day. But 
when it appeared, that in the narrow circle of encamp- 
ment, security could alone be found ; when to venture 
beyond its limits, was to meet captivity or destruc- 
tion — when the boast of power was succeeded by 
precipitate retreat, and the unfortunates who had been 
seduced, were left in the midst of their exasperated 
neighbours, to suffer the penalties of their disaffection 
and precipitancy, or compelled to renounce the delights 
of home, and for ever abandon their possessions, the 

^ '^ ^^ide Ramsay, vol. 2; p 272-3. 



THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 261 

delusion ceased, and confidence was so completely 
withdrawn, that at Cross Creeks the settlement con- 
sidered the most loyal, although supplies were as 
liberally furnished as the slender means of the inha- 
bitants would permit, the retiring army of Lord Corn- 
wallis was not strengthened by a single recruit.* 

In South-Carolina, even after the surrender or 
evacuation of all the posts in the interior country, the 
farce was still kept up by Lord Rawdon and Colonel 
Balfour.t And at the eleventh hour, a Proclamation 
issued by General Leslie,! called for submission, and 
made a tender of pardon to the deluded inhabitants 
for past oifences, which, ere it could be well put 
into circulRtion, was followed bv a second, strongly 
recommending to the Loyal inhabitants, " by the offer 
of submission to the American Government, to obtain 
a mitiiiatbn of the penalties denounced against their 
political offences." 

Finally ; with regard to the details of victories, 
which, founded in misrepresentation, could not fail to 
injure the cause of Britain, I shall content myself with 

* Lord CoRNWALLis, after the battle of Guilford, published a Proclamation, 
boasting of a complete victory, and erecting the Royal Standard, promised 
pardon and protection to all who should join it by a particular day ; but this 
was scarcely done, before he found it necessary, after destroying his baggage, 
and abandoning his wounded, and newly acquired friends, to the mercy of his 
enemy, to march off with precipitancy to Wilmington § 

t In a Proclamation, dated Monk's Corner, May 24th, 1781, Lord Rawdon 
and Lieutenant Colonel Balfour gave assurances, " that every support should 
be afforded to the Loyal inhabitants, and that they would shortly reinstate them 
in the free and peaceable possession of the property from which they had been 
driven."|| 

X General Leslie further assured " his Majesty's loyal subjects in the Pro- 
vince, that they might rely on speedy and eftectual support being given to them 
by the exertion of the forces under his command ; and thai in every event and 
situation, their interests and security should be considered as inseparably con- 
nected with those of his Majesty's troops." 

§ Vide Ramsay's Revolution of South-Corolina, vol. 2. p. 432. 
n Ramsay's Revolotion of South-Carolina, vol. 2. p. 303. 



262 STRICTURES ON 

copying the words of M'Kenzie, taken from his Stric- 
tures on Tarleton's campaigns. 

" It has before been shown, that Lord Cornwallis, 
with respect to the action of Blackstocks, had bestow- 
ed a Uiurel on Lietuenant Colonel Tarleton, that should 
have adorned the brows of Sumter. 

" Official dispatches have been frequently forward- 
ed, founded on misrepresentation, the consequence of 
which has been, that whole garrisons have fired vollies, 
and bonfires been raised to commemorate advantages 
which never existed."^ 

One extract more shall be given, and taken from a 
dispatch published immediately subsequent to the de- 
feat of Colonel Buford, which states, that *' the in- 
habitants from every quarter had repaired to the 
Royal Army, and to the garrison of Charleston, to 
declare their allegiance to the King, and to offer their 
services in arms to support the government, and in 
many instances had brought in their former oppressors 
and leaders. "t Was this the fact? Who is there that 
has the slightest claim to veracity, that will assert it ? 
The happy repartee of an Irish officer, gives an admi- 
rable illustration of the policy pursued. This candid 
gentleman being asked, why an order had been given 
by the Commandant of Charleston for a general illu- 
mination, after the doubtful victory at Guilford Court- 
House, replied, — " Beyond question, the better to keep 
the people in the dark." 



Considering it a maxim, that the military character 
should be *' free from reproach," justice requires, that 
where tarnished with crime, or even in the slightest 
degree suspected of incorrectness, that the transgres- 

« 

* M'Kenzie's Strictures on Tarleton's Campaign. 
I Vide Ramsay's Revolution of South-Carolina, vol. p. 131. 



THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 263 

sors should be named, lest others, to whom their atro- 
cities were altogether abhorrent, should, equally with 
themselves, be subjected to the stigma of reproach and 
infamy. That British officers, natives of those isles, 
heretofore so distinguished for correct feelings and 
generosity of conduct, educated as gentlemen, and with 
a proper sense of the dignity attached to the military 
character, should depart from the strict line of pro- 
priety, and aggravate misfortune by insult and injury, 
woukl almost surpass credibility. Yet, such was the 
fact. It is not a solitary instance that will be produced 
to support the charge. The power to injure by tem- 
porary advantage, was rendered supreme ; and as long 
as its influences remained unshaken, it was neither 
age, nor sex, nor respectability of character, that 
could shield the unfortunate from its baneful influences. 
It is my wish to examine with candour, 

" And give the palm, or shake the rod 
" As Justice turns the scale." 

While, therefore, the sword of Tarleton,* the torch 
of Weymess,t the rapacity of the Lieutenant Colonels 
Cochrant and Provost,^ sweeping over the land with 

* Of Tarleton I shall speak particularly in another place. 

t Weymess was chiefly distinguished by his insatiable desire to destroy the 
habitations of his opponents. It is said that when taken, his pocket book 
contained not only the list of the houses already destroyed, but of those also 
which he intended, at a future day, to commit to the flames. 

t There was not a marauder in the army, not even M'Girth, more dlstirv- 
guished for sagacity in discovering the secret deposits of plate, and appro- 
priating all that came within his grasp, than Colonel Cochran : and he is much 
belied by the reports of his military friends, if he did no- ship to Europe Svivcral 
barrels filled with the article, to revive at a future day the recollection of the 
toils endured in procuring it. 

§ A blundering Refugee, one of a number who gave a dinner to Lieutenant 
Colonel Provost, on his arrival in London with dispatches, relative to the 
repulse of the French and Americans at Savannah, said to him, on being pre- 
sented, — '* Well, Colonel, you have had a peep at Charleston, and given a ter 



264 STRICTURES ON 

more than pestilential destruction, expose the feeble- 
ness of agr, the helplessness of infancy, the timid 
maidens' innocence and hapless widows' griefs to 
every variety of wretchedness. It is a pl-^asure to 
state, aim gre^t would be my delight could i do it on 
a more extended scale, that to the names of Brigadier 
A. Clarke,* cf the Colonels Webster of the 33d, 
Campbell of the 71st, Small and M' Arthur, of the 
Majors Majoribanks, Money and M'Leroth, the Offi- 
cers of the Staff, M'Mahon and Black, no act of 
inhumanity, or of oppression, was ever attached. 

To the officers of the 63d and 64th, and 71st Regi- 
ment, with the exception of Weymess and Baird^ the 
generous protection of property, and delicate attention 
to the sufferings of the afflicted, has been uniformly 
attributed ,• and to this hour, the names of Roberts, 
Lloyd, D, Campbell, Grahame, and Torrianno, are 
never mentioned, but vi^ith affection and gratitude. 

rlble fright to the Rebels. 'Tis true, that on your expedition you gained but few 
laurels, but you made a devilish good trading voyage, plundering, as we are 
credibly informed, all the Islands on your retreat." '' Sir," said the Colonel, 
with the benignant smile of innocence, " you are misinformed. His Majesty's 
troops never plunder." The company blushed for the incivility of their asso- 
ciate ; but who that had an opportunity of witnessing the extent of Colonel 
Provost's depredations, will deny the justice of the accusation. One of the 
pauty, a gentleman of high respectability, who after the war returned to Caro- 
lina, told me that four of his best negroes were selected from his plantation, 
and carried off Ly Provost. 

* This excellent officer, and perfect gentleman, was sent by General Carl- 
ton, to Philadelphia, at the conclusion of hostilities, to receive the British pri- 
soners, who were to be released from captivity. On seeing the comforts that 
had been afforded them, the attention paid to tlieir accommodation and food, 
contrasting it probably with the miseries that our unfortunates in British Prison- 
ships had been destined to endure, he appeared altogether overcome by his 
feelings, and unable by words to express his thanks, did it in a far more flatter- 
ing style, in an abundant effusion of tears. He had previously gained the good 
will of the Americans, by the gentleness of his government while commanding 
the British forces in Georgia, and by the protection afforded to property when 
they finally retired on the evacuation of Savannah. 



THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 265 

The Lieutenant Colonels St. George and Fox, 
Captain Steward of the Guards, Wynyard of the 33d, 
M'Kenzie, Charles Morris the Purveyor, old West- 
minsters, suffered not a difference of political opinion 
to destroy the recollection of early attachments, but to 
their suffering school-fellows, extended every gratifying 
attention and liberal assistance that could mitigate the 
severity of their sufferings. 

Though reluctant to enter upon a detail of enor- 
mities, revolting to humanity, it is necessary, particu- 
larly to state some of the occurrences which daily 
took place, to sanction the accusation of ruthless 
severity that might otherwise be deemed unmerited. 

It was not age, in those days of sorrow and oppres- 
sion, that could protect from insult. The venerable 
Mrs. Brandford witnessed the indecorous conduct of 
an officer, high in the confidence of the Commandant 
of Charleston,* putting a stick into the hands of a 
slave, with a positive command to chastise her son-in- 
law,! a respectable Planter, advanced in years, because 
he had advised his return to the service of his lawful' 
master. 

It was not sex — far from it, the delicacy and res- 
pect due to the female character, was disregarded and 
forgotten. Ladies of the first respectability, t accused 
of imaginary crimes, were thrust into the dungeons of 
the Provost, and compelled, promiscuously, to mingle 
with a motley rabble, distinguished alone by their pro- 
fanity, and the atrocity of their offences. The most 
tender and estimable feelings of nature, were treated 
with callous indifference. 

To one afflicted parent,^ permission was refused to 
witness the interment of an only son. To another,!| 

* Benson. f Mr. E. Horry. X Misses Scarecens. 

'^ General Ciiarlfs C. Pinckney. jl Mrs. K. l/Ann, Broad-Street 

34 



266 STRICTURES OxN 

admission denied at her own door, while holding an 
expiring infant at the threshold. 

The Steward of the American Hospital, an excel- 
lent and honourable man, was dismissed from his post 
because he had endeavoured to prevent the enlistment 
of the Continental Soldiers into the Regiment of Lord 
Charles Montague. The officiating Physician, D'Oli- 
phant, and Surgeons of the department, were preven- 
ted from administering relief to the patients under 
their care, for having openly reprobated the injustice 
of the measure. 

The Captains G. A. Hall and Heyward, having 
surrendered their swords as prisoners under the capitu- 
lation of Charleston, w^ere assailed by a party of offi- 
cers on the public street, had their cockades torn from 
their hats, and indignantly trampled under foot. The 
prisoners selected as fit objects of retaliation, while 
conducted to the ships prepared for their confinement, 
were insulted by the ribaldry of an infuriate mob, and 
pelted with every species of filth that could annoy or 
offend. 

Naught but the insatiable desire to persecute, could 
have occasioned the innocent correspondence of 
friends, as in the case of Colonel Grimke and Mr. 
Kean, to be construed into a violation of parole, so as 
to subject them to an increase of severities already 
inflicted. 

Naught but the determination to give to malignity 
a sharper sting, caused the Commandant of St. Augus- 
tine, to sentence Captain Jacob Read to rigourous and 
solitary confinement, for no other offence alleged 
against him, than having transmitted to a friend in 
Charleston, an extract from a Jamaica paper, giving 
intelligence of an advantage gained by a Spanish 
squadron over a fleet of British transports in the West 
Indies. The ostensible cause, in neither instance, 
could have been the true one. A shadow of excuse 



THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 267 

appeared to goad with vexations, the stubborn virtue 
that could not be subdued ; and every shadow was 
caught at that afforded pretext for aggression. 

The liberty of working for the support of their 
starving families, was denied to all who refused to 
solicit f)rot^^ction. Suits to distress them were encou- 
raged ; but against their pleas, the doors of Justice, as 
well as of Mercy, were closed. 

Capitulants could not pass the boundaries of the 
Garrison on the land side, and were strictly prohibited 
from undertaking any water excursion on the other. 
If they ventured abroad, they were saluted at every 
turn by the keenest taunts of irony and reproach. If 
they remained at home, the numbers and temper of the 
military quartered upon them, left them without a ray 
of comfort to cheer them under the pressure of cala- 
mity. It may truly be said, that the cup of misery 
was filled to an overllow« I must be still more parti- 
cular. 

Where the exercise of peculiar severity was con- 
templated, and the prevailing authorities wished to 
bend the haughty spirit of patriotism to submission, or 
humble the constancy that bid defiance to oppression, 
the ready instrument of tyranny was at hand. Who 
could hear of the wanton insults of Major Hanger, 
without the slightest regard either to decency or clean- 
liness, introducing into the best apartments of the 
most respectable families, his cats, his dogs, and his 
monkeys, while revelling himself in every species of 
sensuality, under the eyes of the unprotected females 
on whom he was billetted, and not lament that Hea- 
ven had not spared some chosen bolt to punish his 
atrocity. I cannot be more particular, for 

" 'T would fill each generous breast with wild amazement, 
" To hear the story told." 

A person, requiring of this unfeeling man the parti- 
culars of Gates' defeat, he replied, " Flushed with 



g^gg i>TRICTURES ON 

victory, and eag;er in pursuit, my arm was too well 
employed to allow much time for observation ; but, 
overtaking the wagon of De Kalb, on which was 
seated a Monkey, fantastically dressed, I ceased to 
destroy, and addressing the affrighted animal, exclaim- 
ed, ' You, Monsieur, I perceive, are a Frenchman and 
a gentleman.' Je vous donne la parole,'^'* 

" Where were thy terrors, conscience ? where thy justice ? 

<« That this bad man dare boldly own his crimes, 

" Insult thy sacred power, and glory in it.'* Francis. 

It cannot be easily conceived, from what unpromis- 
ing soil Hope will spring up in the bosoms of the 
unhappy. From such delusion originated the fatal 
propensity to temporize with the enemy, and to seek 
protection. Its victims paid the penalty of their rash- 
ness, and were speedily convinced, that they had gained 
but little by the change. Indulgence, however, was 
occasionally granted to their wishes, while towards 
the inflexible in principle, a rigid austerity and an unde- 
viating system of oppression was maintained, that has 
not its parallel in history. In the rejection of requests 
the most reasonable, a littleness and unmanly spirit of 
revenge was exhibited, that cannot be reprobated with 
sufficient severity. 

Pre-eminent in malignity stood the Engineer Mon- 
crief. The instances of oppression issuing from his 
implacable resentment would fill a volume. I shall 
confine myself to one Anecdote, to show how little 
he knew, justly to appreciate the dignified inflexibility 
of a patriotic heart. 

A lady of the highest respectability,^ solicited, as a 
favour, that he would not suffer certain Oak Trees of 
remarkable beauty, on a farm which he occupied, to 
be destroyed, as they were highly valued by her son, 

*Mrs. PiNCKNBT, mother of General C. C. Pinckney. 



THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 269 

having been planted by his father's hand. " And 
where is your son, Madam ?" said Colonel Moncrief. 
" At HaddrelFs, Sir — a prisoner." *' And he wishes 
me, Madam, to have these trees preserved ?" " Yes, 
Sir, if possible." '' Then, tell him, Madam, that they 
will make excellent fire- wood, and he may depend 
upon it they shall be burnt." Colonel Moncrief was 
no jester — the promptitude of his actions left no room 
for suspense. An opportunity was offered to injure 
and to insult, and he did not fail to embrace it. The 
trees were burnt. 

A lady of the highest respectability, writing to Colo- 
nel Tarleton, requesting the liberty of using one or 
two apartments in her house, immediately occupied by 
him, as they would essentially contribute to her com- 
fort, he concisely replied, *' Madam, after mature 
deliberation, my eyt^s are so opened, and senses con- 
vinced, that the enemies of my country should not 
enjoy every convenience, that I hold it an act of pro- 
priety to retain the house in Broad-street, given me by 
the Commander in Chief for my sole accommodation. 
B. Tarleton." 

Wh^n Provost invaded Carolina, a considerable 
British force occupied the house and plantation of Mr. 
Robert Gibbes, on the Stono River. At the period of 
their arrival there, Mr. John Gibbes, a respectable 
gentleman, worn down by age and infirmity, was on a 
visit to his brother. His usual residence was on a farm 
called the Grove, where the Race Ground is now 
established, comprehending several of the neighbouring 
gentlemen's seats, and at the period improved not only 
with ta^e in the disposition of the grounds, but by the 
introduction of numberless exotics of the highest 
beauty. He had in addition, a green-house and pinery, 
in the best condition. A Major Sheridan, arriving from 
the army on the Neck, at Mr. Gibbes, was asked by 
an officer, in the presence of the brothers, — " What 



270 STRICTURES OxN 

news ? shall we gain possession of the city ?" " I fear 
not," replied Sheridan, "but we have made glorious 
havoc of the property in the vicinity. I yesterday wit- 
nessed the destruction of an elegant establishment 
belonging to an arch Rebel, who luckily for himself 
was absent. You would have been delighted to see 
how quickly the pine apples were shared among our 
men, and how rapidly his trees and ornamental shrubs 
were levelled with the dust." Mr. John Gibbes, who 
was a man of strong passions, could hear no more, and 
regardless of consequences, with indignation, exclaim- 
ed, " I hope that the Almighty will cause the arm of 
the scoundrel who struck the first blow to wither to 
his shoulder." " How is this. Sir," said Sheridan. 
" Dare you, Sir, use such language to me." " Yes," 
said Mr. Gibbes, " and would repeat it at the Altar." 
*' The provocation," said the commanding officer pre- 
sent, "sufficiently justifies the anger of Mr. Gibbes; 
for your own credit, Sheridan, let the matter drop." 
The catastrophe w^as dreadful. To banish thought, 
Mr. Gibbes, unhappily driven to the indulgence of an 
intemperance before unknown, retired to his bed — and 
rose no more. 

A certain day being appointed, after which none but 
protection-men were allowed to exercise either trade 
or profession. A poor mechanic, the cries of whose 
family for bread were irresistible, humbly solicited that 
a protection might be allowed him, though the hour of 
demanding it had gone by. " God knows," he added, 
" that my intention was to have asked it, had it not 
escaped my memory." " Retire, Sir," said Harry 
Barry, " you had ample time given you for repentance, 
and you refused to embrace it. You caH God to wit- 
ness your intention. Jesus Christ thought it no dis- 
grace to receive a certificate from the hands of John 
the Baptist, of his faith in the utility of baptism to 
salvation. You should not have felt ashamed to 



THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 271 

receive from the hands of Nesbit Balfour, a certificate 
that would do away the remembrance of your political 
sins, and renovate your faith in the talents and virtues 
of your neglected master George 3d." Thus, allusions 
to ceremonies the most sacred, were treated with levity, 
and a trifling neglect, probably arising from ibrgetful- 
ness, magnified into an unpardonable crime. But 
respect to the name of the Saviour could scarcely be 
expected where it was denied to worship him. The 
sanctity of the Temple could not protect its Altars. The 
Church in Prince William's was wantonly burnt, and 
for no other reason, as the incendiaries asserted, than 
that it added greatly to the beauty of the scenery about 
Sheldon, the seat of General Bull. The Churches 
also, in St. Bartholomew's and St. Paul's were re- 
duced to ashes. The Bible and books of prayer, pre- 
sented by Mrs. Jacob Motte, taken from the Church of 
St. James', Santee, were purchased in London, after 
the peace, by a member of the Church, and restored as 
a sacred gift, according to the intention of the original 
donor. 

But as a further proof that no species of tyranny 
was left unessayed, that could force the unfortunate to 
profess sentiments abhorrent to their hearts, a more 
forcible and appropriate instance cannot be given, than 
in the case of Mr. Seabourn Jones, of Georgia. Tliis 
gentleman had relinquished his country, friends, and 
home to oppose the enemy, from whom he neither ex- 
pected, nor would willingly have received favour. But 
being a prisoner, and dciiied the privilege of procuring 
bread, he was compelled to solicit it. The reply was 
laconic : ** Take protection, and gain your bread. Ad- 
here to the standard of Rebellion, and starve." His 
heart forbade the one ; the other would necessarily 
have followed, had not the happy negotiation of Major 
Hyrne succeeded, and restored him to liberty and his 
country. 



DISTINGUISHED BKITISH OFFICERS. 



LORD CORNWALLIS. 

The Bard, who best knew the human heart, has 
said, 

" Sweet are the uses oT adversity." 

In the instance of Lord Cornwallis, I am ready to 
subscribe to his opinion ; for, from the moment that the 
sun of his glory set at York-Town, and from the ex- 
alted station of a conqueror, whose prowess was long 
esteemed irresistible, he became himself a captive, he 
appeared as much distinguished by gentleness and 
amiability, by justice and generosity, as he had been 
previously characterized, by an unbending haughtiness 
of demeanor, and a severity that neither the powerful 
solicitations of the oppressed, rendered eloquent by 
their sufferings, nor the imperious calls of mercy and 
humanity could ever subject to control. Had the 
same dispositions swayed his actions in America, that 
influenced his conduct while in command in Ireland 
and in India, I might have represented him, although 
a decided, still a generous enemy — active and inde- 
fatigable in his exertions to obtain victory — considerate 
and humane in the use he made of it ; but, grateful as 
the duty would have been to me, it is denied me to 
perform it. I cannot compliment at the expense of 
truth, and must si)eak of the acts of aggression which 
were heaped by him upon my bleeding country, as 
those acts deserve. 



.CORNWALLIS. 273 

I have never read of any distinguished military cha- 
rarter, either in ancient or modern times, let the pre- 
dominancy of vicious propensities be ever so conspi- 
cuous, tiiat had not some trait of merit, some emanation 
of noble and generous feeling to recommend it. Take 
from Lord Cornwallis, as commander of the British 
army in the Southern States, the lustre of dauntless 
intrepidity, patient in su[)porting difficulties, indefati- 
gable in surmounting them, and, where, in contem- 
plating his character, shall a claim to any perfection be 
found, that could entitle him to praise or admiration. 

When the power to show mercy is unlimited, its 
exercise cannot be withheld without guilt. The sen- 
timent was in no manner congenial to the heart of 
Lord Cornwallis. Forced, for the preservation of 
their families, to solicit British protection, he, by an 
increase of severity and unlooked for exactions, compels 
his converts to fly to the hostile camps for security ; 
and then, in a letter dated August 18th, 1780, thus 
addresses Colonel Cruger, the commandant at Ninety- 
Six :" — " I have given orders, that all the inhabitants 
of this Province who had submitted, and who have 
taken part in its revolt, shall be punished with the great- 
est rigour — that they should be imprisoned, and their 
whole proj)erty taken from them or destroyed. 1 have 
ordered in the most positive manner, that every militia- 
man, who had borne arms with us, and afterwards 
joined the enemy, should be immediately hanged ; and 
have now, Sir, only to desire, that you will take the 
most vigorous measures to extinguish the rebellion, 
and that you will obey, in the strictest manner, the 
directions given in this letter." 

Had he exhibited a spark of humanity, had he 
soothed the afflictions of the wretched, softened the 
pains of captivity, or with generous compassion as^ 

^ vide Ramsay'!? Revolution of South-Cafolina. vol. 2.p 157. 

35 



274 CORNWALLIS. 

suaged the agonies of the wounded spirit ; some grate- 
ful heart that had been cheered by his sijiile, and 
rescued from despondency — some parent, thankful for 
a child preserved, or wife, whose tears had saved the 
partner of her affections from unmerited persecution, 
would have proclaimed the deed, and blessed his me- 
mory. But, in vain do we seek such testimony of his 
worth. One universal sentiment towards him is che- 
rished in every bosom, " He but enjoyed power to 
abuse it." 

That I may not be supposed to speak at random, or 
give indulgence to prejudices that are without a foun- 
dation to support them, I will give his character as 
thrice presented to the public view. 

The flagrant violation of the capitulation of Charles- 
ton, in innumerable instances, being considered a suf][i- 
cient reason to deprive Lord Cornwallis of the benefits 
of that which was granted to him at the surrender of 
York-Town, it was moved in Congress by the Ho- 
nourable Arthur Middleton, a Delegate from the State 
of South-Carolina,* that — " In order to prevent 
future controversy on the subject of an exchange, Con- 
gress, who represent the feelings, as well as the sense 
of the nation, do declare, that Lieutenant General 
Charles Earl Cornwallis ought not to be exchanged by 
composition, not from any apprehensions of his influ- 
ence, or superior abilities, but because they look upon 
him, not in the light of a British General, but a bar- 
barian. In proof of their justice in classing him in so 
degrading a predicament, they appeal to the impartial 
history of his conduct, during his command in the 
Southern and Middle States, where his progress may 
be traced by blood wantonly spilt, by executions un- 
warranted even by military regulations, and by the 
indiscriminate plunder of property, and destruction of 

* Vide Ramsay's Revolution of South-CaroIiQa, p. 330. 



CORNWALLIS. 275 

the habitations of the widow and orphan ; circum- 
stances dis^racpful to the arms of any enlightened 
peo|)Ie — because he has governed himself solely upon 
principles of eastern tyranny — has broken the faith of 
treaty, solemnly pledged in the capitulation of Charles- 
ton, by ordering the seizure of the property and per- 
sons of the capitulants, by the confinement of some on 
board of prison ships, and transportation of others to 
St. Augustine, and the banishment of their wives and 
children — because he has authorized and countenanced 
the enlistment of upwards of five hundred American 
Soldiers into the British service, or rather suffered 
them to be compelled, by cruelties and hard usage, to 
take arms against their country ; and in numberless 
other instances, has infringed every rule of war esta- 
blished among civilized nations." 

On the anniversary of his capture, the I9th of 
October, 1814, in an address to the youth of the Cin- 
cinnati Society, he is thus noticed : 

" Gentlemen of the Cincinnati. 

" The anniversary of the eventful day which we celebrate, fills 
the heart of every American with pride and gratitude. We recol- 
lect, with exultation, the valour which broke the sceptre of oppres- 
sion, and bow with thankfulness before the beneficent Providence, 
whose protection secured to us the blessings of Peace, Liberty, and 
Independence. On this day the cloud of misfortune obscured the 
brilliant achievements of our most active and implacable enemy. 
The visionary confidence that his genius was unequalled, vanished. 
The rapid current of his successes rose no longer superior to oppo- 
sition — his triumphs ceased — Cornwallis fell. He was, indeed, a 
hero in arms, but dead to the gentler feelings of humanity ; a stran- 
ger to that moderation and forbearance which gives to victory its 
highest attraction. The establishment of the nefarious instruments 
of oppression, the Boards of Police and Sequestration, too fatally 
prove the justice of my assertion ; while the sanctioned and applaud- 
ed barbarities of the sanguinary Tarleto^, indisputably evince, 



276 CORNWALLIS. 

that " Mercy, the first attribute of Heaven/' had no place in his 
heart."* This is no exaggerated picture. I would not unnecessarily 
excite indignation. My only wish is, to present your enemy, such as 
he was at the period, when the subjugation of America was the 
cherished aim of Britain, that you may anticipate what you may 
now expect, when he approaches our coasts, not to conciliate, but 
destroy." 



In the life of General Marion, compiled from the 
notes of a distinguished Partisan, Colonel Peter Horry, 
we find this passage — " It has been said, that Lord 
Cornvvallis, struck with the bravery of De Kalb, gene- 
rously su})erintended while his wounds were dressed 
by his own Surgeon, and that, after his death, he or- 
dered him to be buried with the honours of war. — 
British officers have often been known to do such 
noble deeds ; but, that Lord Cornwallis was capable of 
acting so honourably, is very doubtfuV^f 

If we seek the opinions of the British writers, rela- 
tive to his conduct, Tarleton accuses him of injustice^ 
M'Kenzie of partiality and 7msrepresentation, Sted- 
man of impolicy and unnecessary severity. If they 
wiio partook of his triumphs, and rejoiced at his suc- 
cesses, thus openly censure, how can we withhold the 
exi)ression of our resentments, subjected by him to 
every misery and degradation that relentless tyranny 
could impose. 

* No censure, no expression of dissatisfaction was ever useJl to check the 
wanton barbarities of Tarleton. On the contrary, in a letter dated Novem- 
ber 11th, 1780, Lord Cornwallis says to him, " I wish you could get three 
Legions, and divide yourself into three parts. We can do nothing without 

you." 

■1 Vide Weeras' Life of Marion. 



CAMPBELL. 277 



LIEUT. COL. ARCHIBALD CAMPBELL, 

71st REGIMENT. 

Quitting a character so justly reprobated as that of 
Cornvvallis, it is truly grateful to present, by way of 
contrast, that of Lieutenant Colonel Campbell, of the 
71st British Regiment. A conqueror at Savannah, his 
immediate care was to soften the asperities of war, 
and to reconcile to his equitable government, those 
who had submitted, in the first instance, to the supe- 
riority of his arms. Though but lately released from 
close and rigorous confinement, w|iich he had suffered 
in consequence of indignities offered to General 
Charles Lee, a prisoner at New- York, he harboured 
no resentments, and appeared to consider his sufferings 
rather the effect of necessity, than wilful persecution. 
Oppression was foreign to his nature, and incompatible 
with his [)ractice. He made a proper allowance for 
an attachment to cherished principles, nor withheld 
his applause from those who bravely supported them. 
He used no threats to gain proselytes, no artifice to 
ensnare them. vSuch of the inhabitants as voluntarily 
made a tender of service, were favourably received ; 
but he was ever disinclined to invite them to take up 
arms in the British cause, lest in the fluctuating coun- 
cils of his government, he should lead them to destruc- 
tion. He had too frequently seen them lavish of pro- 
fessions of permanent support, leaving their deluded 
adherents to the mercy of the government, which, in 
evil hour, they had abandoned. The friends of our 
Indei)endence had every thing to dread from his wis- 
dom and humanity, but their alarm was of short dura- 
tion. Lieutenant Colonel Campbell had too nice a 
sense of honour to be made the instrument of injustice 
and oppression, and he was speedily called on to relin- 



278 CAMPBELL. 

quish his command, to a superior, less scrupulous, and 
better disposed to second the harsh measures of the 
Commander in Chief. 



LORD RAWDON. 

I HAVE already, in detailing particulars relative to 
the murder of Colonel Hayne, said so much of Lord 
Rawdon, that it may appear superfluous to bring for- 
ward further proof of that unrelenting severity, that 
appears never to have been satisfied but by the sacrifice 
of its object. Executions under his mandate had 
become so frequent in Camden, that they were regarded 
with mute astonishment. If words found utterance, the 
inquiry was, not " i^i^o," but " how many, are to be 
hanged to-day." Of his humanity towards his own 
troops, and particulaaly his oivn countrymen^ an accu- 
rate judgment may be formed from the extracts of his 
letter to Colonel Rugely, which I have selected, and 
which will immediately follow. But before they are 
brought into view, I would observe, that at the moment 
this letter was written, poor Ireland,'^ the most op- 

* The Irish nation were, in sentiment, altogether favourable to the cause of 
America. In the year 1775, when I was removed from Westminster School to 
College, I remember, that in a debating Society at Edinburgh, it was proposed 
as a subject for discussion, " Whether it was just, wise, or practicable, for 
America to resist the decrees of Great Britain," a Speaker, who appeared 
extremely tenacious of the authority and power of the parent state, vehe- 
mently maintaining, that it was not only impolitic, but impossible for America, 
yet in her infancy, to support the contest with the slightest prospect of success. 
Dr. Drennan, a youthful Irish student, exclaimed, " I readily admit a part of 
the gentleman's proposition, but deny the accuracy of the conclusion drawn 
from it. His assertion relative to the infancy of America is undeniable ; but 
it may well be compared to the infancy of Hercules — since secure in her cra- 
dle, she sees the approach of hostili*y without terror, and will not fail to crush 
the vipers sent for her destruction, by an unnatural step mother." 



KAWDON. 279 

pressed nation in the civilized world, began not only 
more keenly to feel the injustice of Britain, but more 
openly to express her abhorrence of the tyranny im- 
posed upon her. America offered an asylum against 
the evils she endured. Nor was it disregarded by iier 
gallant sons. Many adventurous youths, till the mo- 
ment should arrive when a struggle for freedom could 
be made at home, inspired by the most exalted feelings 
of the heart, sought our shores to enrol themselves 
under the standard of Liberty ; and in supporting our 
cause, none were more distinguished. In the North, 
the gallant Montgojnery , the Generals Irvine, Arm- 
strong, Moylan, and Walter Steward, obtained the 
highest reputation for zeal and intrepidity. In the 
South, the valour of Armstrong, O^Neale, Manning, 
and Irvine of the Legion, merited, and were rewarded 
by universal admiration and applause. In the ranks of 
our armies there were many of the sons of Erin, who 
felt the injuries heaped upon us, as injuries to them- 
selves, and fought for America as they would have 
fought for Ireland. It was to check this noble spirit, 
to extinguish the dawn of resistance in their expanding 
views of the rights of man, that Lord Rawdon issued 
his sanguinary orders. They might have produced 
sorne effect; but they plainly showed, that in his troops, 
generally, he had no confidence ; and that with his own 
Regiment, the Volunteers of Ireland, the language of 
the lips had no correspondence with the emotions of the 
bosom ; and that on rejoicing days, while peals were 
fired, and the air resounded with loud huzzas for the 
king, their hearts w^ere with the cause and the armies 
of America. 



280 RAWDOiN. 



EXTRACT OF A LETTER TO COLONEL RUGELY, COMMANDING THE 



'^ If attachment to their Sovereign will not move the country people 
(o check a crime so disastrous to the service (desertion) it must be 
my care to urge them to their duty, as good subjects, by using inva- 
riable severity against every one who shall show so criminal a neglect 
of the public interest. If any person shall meet a soldier, straggling 
without a written pass, beyond the picquets, and shall not do his 
utmost to secure him, or shall not spread an alarm for that purpose, 
or if any person shall give shelter to soldiers straggling as above 
mentioned, or shall serve them as a guide, or shall furnish them with 
passes, or any other assistance, the persons so offending may assure 
themselves of rigorous punishment, or by whipping, impi^isonment, 
or by being sent to serve in the West Indies, according as I shall 
think the degree of criminality may require ; for I have ordered that 
every soldier who passes the picquet, shall submit himself to be 
examined by any miUtiaman who has a suspicion of him. If a soldier, 
therefore, attempts to escape when ordered by a militiaman to stop, 
he is immediately to be fired on as a deserter.'' 

And then, as a mark of peculiar distinction, he adds, 

*"' I will give ten guineas /or the head of any deserter belonging to the 
Volunteers of Ireland, and Jive guineas only, if he be brought aliveJ^ 



GENERAL WEBSTER, 

Among the British officers serving in the South, 
there was certainly no one who possessed so just a 
claim to celebrity as General Webster. To consum- 
mate skill and intrepidity, and a devotion to the cause 
of the Monarch whom he served and loved, (a trait of 
character which gained him the highest applause of his 

■ Vide Ramsay's Revolution of South-Carolina, vol. 2. p. 133: 



WEBSTER. 281 

own army) he united a generous forbearance and 
humanity towards such of his enemies as fell within 
the influence of his power, as secured their gratitude 
and most exalted admiration. Tarleton, in his history 
of the Southern Campaigns, thus briefly, though com- 
prehensively, notices his merits. " He united all the 
virtues of civil life, to the gallantry and professional 
knowledge of a soldier." And Lee, under the im- 
pression of sentiments that do him honour, speaking of 
his untimely fate, says, — " So long as the tenderest 
feelings of sorrow, expressed in language that can only 
flow from the heart, shall be admired. Lord Cornwallis, 
in his letter to the afl^icted and affectionate parent of 
the departed hero, has left an imperishable monument 
to his fame." 

An extract of this letter cannot be unacceptable to 
the heart that feels. 

" It gives me great concern to undertake a task which is not only 
a bitter renewal of ray own grief, but must be a violent shock to an 
aflfectionate parent. You have for your support the assistance of 
religion, good sense, and the experience of the uncertainty of human 
happiness. You have for your satisfaction, that your son fell nobly 
in the cause of his country, honoured and lamented by all his fellow 
soldiers ; that he led a life of honour and virtue, which must secure to 
him everlasting happiness. 

^' When the keen sensibilities of the passions begin to subside, 

these considerations will give you real comfort. That the Almighty 

may give you fortitude to bear this severest of strokes, is the earnest. 

wish of your companion in affliction. 

" Cornwallis." 

He further enumerates his services throughout the 
#ar, proving hiai at all times, and in every situation, 
where an opportunity was offered to display his talents 
or his virtues, a distinguished commander and exem- 
plary man. 

I have but little to add ; but what I have to say is so 
much to his credit, that it would b6 unpardonable to 



282 WEBSTER. 

withhold it. Encamped, daring the siege of Charles- 
ton, at Brabant's, the seat of the late Bishop Smith, 
where many of the Whig Ladies, whose friends were 
serving within the garrison, had retired for security, his 
attentions to them were uniformly polite and generous; 
he was liberal in the offer of service, and afforded 
them security and protection from the insults and op- 
pression to which unlimited license was allowed in 
almost every other quarter. And it is highly to his 
honour, that while in mere wantonness the Temples of 
God were elsewhere either levelled to the dust, or 
given up to devouring flames, that he caused a Church 
in the neighbourhood, the destruction of which had 
already commenced, to be rebuilt, and guarded by the 
very men whose aim was to render it a mass of ruins. 



COLOiNEL SMALL. 

It would be superfluous to detail particular instan- 
ces of the exemplary good conduct of this gallant 
soldier, whose constant aim was to soothe the sorrows 
of the afflicted, and to give exercise to the beneficence 
of a generous heart. 

There was no measure adopted by the British autho- 
rities, that appeared more irksome and oppressive, than 
that of billeting their officers upon the unfortunates, 
to whom, under the capitulation of Charleston, was 
guaranteed the uninterrupted possession of their pro- 
perty. Yet, such was the known character of Colonel 
Small, that a billet presented by him was regarded as 
a distinguished mark of favour ; security from insult, 
and from every species of imposition, being insepa- 
rable from his presence. What must have been the 
delightful sensaticftis of his heart, who, idolized by his 



SMALL. 28S 

Qwn troops, saw himself, at the same time, courted as 
a friend, and reverenced as a protector, by the helpless 
families of the enemy, with whom he contended ? 
The sympathies of his benevolence shielded them from 
harm, and was repaid with tenfold gratitude. He 
assuaged their sufferings and relieved their wants ; and 
every prayer which they offered to Heaven, was min- 
gled with ardent solicitations for blessings on his head. 

Towards the conclusion of the war. Colonel Small 
expressing a wish to meet with General St. Clair of 
the Am'erican army, the friend and companion of his 
early years, a flag of truce was immediately sent by 
General Greene, with an invitation to come within our 
lines, and remain at his option therein, free from every 
restriction. It was accepted, and such attentions were 
paid to him, not only by the Commander in Chief, but 
by all the superior officers of the army, as must have 
been highly grateful to him, since it not only evinced 
their gratitude, but exalted opinion also of the liberal 
and generous conduct that excited it. 

Paying a visit to our Ambassador, Major Thomas 
Pinckney, shortly after his establishment in London, it 
was my good fortune to meet with Colonel Small, 
who, in the course of conversation, said, *' I have been 
sitting this morning to Colonel Trumbull for my por- 
trait, he having done me the honour to place me in a 
very conspicuous sitiuation in his admirable represen- 
tation of the battle of Bunker's Hill. But his polite- 
ness far exceeds my claim to merit. He has exhibited 
me as turning aside the bayonet aimed by a grenadier 
at the breast of General Warren. I would certainly 
have saved his life, had it been in my power to do so, 
but when I reached the spot on which his body lay, 
the spark of life was already extinguished. It would 
have been a tribute due to his virtues and to his gal- 
lantry, and to me a sacred duty, since I am well 
apprized, that when at a particular period of the 



284 SMALL. 

action, I was left alone, and exposed to the fire of the 
whole American line, my old friend, Putnam, saved my 
life by calling aloud, * kill as many as you can, but 
spare Small ;' and that he actually turned aside muskets 
that were aimed for my destruction." 

When the attack was made some years since on the 
military reputation of General Putnam, I communi- 
cated these circumstances to my friend, Major Jackson, 
of Phil^idelphia, who published them as a proof of its 
illiberal !ty, since it is not possible to suppose that the 
soldier, who with such anxious solicitude endeavoured 
to screen from harm the life of a generous enemy, 
could, from apprehension of his own personal safety, 
in the manner insinuated, have swerved from his duty, 
and must have fixed a stigma on the reputation of the 
Commander in Chief, for the want of that discernment 
universally attributed to him, that he continued to the 
last hour of the war to bestow his entire confidence on 
one, who in the very dawn of hostility had proved 
himself unworthy of it. 



COLONEL TARLETON. 

With every disposition to moderation and forbear- 
ance, it is difficlt to speak with temper of a man, 
whose invariable aim was to destroy, and whose re- 
sentments were only to be appeased by an unceasing 
effusion of blood. Acting in strict conformity with 
his declared opinion,'^^ — " That severity alone could 
effect the establishment of regal authority in America," 
the bounds of humanity were overleapt. The des- 
truction of property scarcely merited notice, where 
the goadings of personal insult were so ardently che- 

* Ramsay, vol. 2, p. 156. 



TARLETON. 285 

rished, and death made the primary object of enter- 
prisp. It is no. exa2;geration to say, that wheresoever 
the influences of Tarleton extended, with scarcely an 
exce|)tion, his progress might be traced by merciless 
severity. Contemplate the destruction, the desolation 
of the plantation of Colonel Hill, in the New Acqui- 
sition, his flourishing iron works, mills, dwelling house, 
buildings of every description, exhibiting a frightful 
scene of universal ruin. His wife and children sub- 
jected to the inclemency of an insalubrious climate, 
without shelter, food, or raiment. See the wanton 
exercise of his authority, hanging, on the most trivial 
pretexts, men of the first respectability, exemplified in 
the execution of Mr. Johnston, an upright and intelli- 
gent Magistrate.! Witness the slaughter of the unre- 
sisting force of Colonel Buford,t crying out for quarter; 
and finally view him. after partaking of the hospitality 
of the widow of General Richardson, not only plun- 
dering her proi)erty, and burning her house, but 
degrading manhood, by spurning with his foot this 
helpless female, even on the verge of the grave of her 
husband, who, in palliation of his enormities, he pre- 
tended to believe still in arms. 

Great, but certainly unmerited credit has been given 
to Tarleton, for the achievement of deeds of hardy 
enterprise. Where celerity of movement was neces- 
sary to secure victory, he is clearly entitled to unqua- 
lified praise. In reaping all the fruits resulting from 
an attack by surprise, he was judicious in his arrange- 
ments, and prompt in their execution. But, where 
can it be said that he ever encountered opposition that 

* Ramsay, vol. 2, p. 159. I p. 160. 

X An officer of our army, whose accuracy it is impossible for me to doubt, 
assured me that he visited the Hospital at the VVaxsaws, in which the wounded 
were left, that many of them were in a state of perfect nakedness, having been 
stripped of every article of clothing, and that the wounds inflictcdi amounted 
on an average to sixteen to each individual. 



286 TARLETON. 

he did not cx[)erience discomfiture. At Monk's Cor- 
ner and Laneau's Ferr}^ he was actually in possession 
of his adversary's camp, before they were apprized of 
his approach ; and meeting but feeble resistance, was 
completely triumphant. At the defeat of Buford, the 
panic that deprived both the commander and his forces 
of every power of exertion, precluded the possibility 
of resistance, and they were literally butchered almost 
to a man. Again, at Fishing Creek, unexpectedly 
appearing, and by an impetuous attack bearing down 
the opposition made by a few individuals, commanded 
by Captain Taylor of Columbia,* he gained new lau- 
rels as a soldier of enterprise, but additional disgrace 
as a man, recording his triumph in blood. Here ended 
the successes of Tarleton. The energies which dis- 
tinguished his early career, were never again exhibited. 

* I wished to have spoken more particularly in this work of the services of 
this gallant soldier and determined Whig — they richly merited praise, and I 
would gladly have bestowed it, but ray etforts to be made acquainted with the 
eventful scenes of his life have proved abortive, and it is denied me to record 
them. Lord Cornwallis very quickly perceived both the abilities and exten- 
sive influence of Captain Tavlor, and so far departed from the usual austerity 
of character, as to seek his society, and condescend to argue with him on 
the impolicy and inutility of resistance, offering him a carte blanche for military 
promotion and pecuniary emolument, would he but consent to join the British 
Standard, and aid the establishment of the Royal authority. The proposition 
was at once rejected ; and Spmter appearing in arms in support of the cause 
of Liberty, Captain Taylor, with enthusiastic ardour, joined him. The resis- 
tance made at Fishing Creek, proceeded almost altogether from Captain Tay- 
lor's company, but was of little avail, and both himself and brother were made 
prisoners. While conducting under a guard of Cavalry to the British Head- 
Quarters, perceiving that the dragoons were much intoxicated, and those near 
them particularly so, Captain Taylor proposed to his relative, that when they 
should arrive at a part of the road thickly wooded, where the pursuit of cavalry 
would be unavailing, that on a signal agreed on, they should dash into the 
Uiickets on opposite sides, and make an effort for liberty. The scheme was 
agreed to, and carried into effect with the happiest success. Both escaped 
uninjured. At Blackstock-Hill, Captain Taylor acquired increase of military 
reputation, but lost his gallant brother, who fell in the action. His zeal never 
knew abatement during the continuance of the war ; and to the present day, as 
a distinguished Patriot, he possesses the most gratifying of all rewards, the es- 
teem and confidence of his country. 



TARLETON. 287 

Foiled by Marion at every point, and incessantly 
harassed by him, while the combat which he eagerly 
sought for was declined, he indignantly exclaimed, 
" Since the Fox (meaning Marion) avoids me, I will 
seek the Old Cock (Sumter.) He, I know, will fight, 
and shall pay the penalty for all the vexations 1 have 
suffered from his wily rival." The result of his brava- 
does is well known. Sumter beat him at Blackstock 
Hill, Davie at Charlotte, Lee in every encounter 
where there was a contention for superiority ; and 
Washington, at the Cowpens, put to rest the exagge- 
rated opinions of his prowess and invincibility, never 
to be revived again. 

Is it not wonderful that this man, so frequently in- 
dulging his passions without restraint, and blotting out 
the fair characters of victory by unexampled severities, 
could occasionally exhibit all the mildness and urbanity 
that might be expected from a perfect and well-bred 
gentleman, a tenderness of feeling, and liberality of 
soul, that do him the highest honour. 

There were a circle of ladies assembled, during the 
siege of Charleston, at Brabant's, the seat of Bishop 
Smith, near which Colonel Tarleton had fixed his 
quarters. The delicacy of his attentions to them could 
not be surpassed; and they with unanimity declare, 
that they never witnessed any act proceeding from his 
orders, that did not entitle him to their respect and 
gratitude. 

When our gallant countryman. Major Pinckney, 
received the wound at Gates' defeat, which placed 
him in the hands of the enemy, the generous feelings 
of an old school-fellow, Captain Charles Barrington 
M'Kenzie of the 71st British Regiment, under the 
blessing of Heaven, preserved his valuable life. Ap- 
plying to Tarleton for his interposition in behalf of his 
suffering friend, he immediately received an order to 
call from the field his Surgeon, whose early attention 



288 TARLETON. 

in all probability, prevented the catastrophe which 
befel General Porterfield and other officers, whose 
wounds not being dressed for thirty-six hours, from 
exhaustion and loss of blood, expired. The character 
of the wounded prisoner had excited a deep interest 
in his bosom. The ferocity of his temper was laid 
aside. He ordered, that every attention should be 
paid him, that could mitigate the severity of his 
wound — supplied him amply with port wine, consi- 
dered essential to prevent the spasms that threatened 
his life — tendered the restoration of the horses recently 
impressed from his faaiily at Fort Motte — and urged 
with the generous spirit of a soldier, the free and 
unlimited use of his purse. I could pardon him a 
thousand errors for this emanation of generous sym- 
pathy. Such attentions were received with the gra- 
titude they were well calculated to excite. The sin- 
cerest acknowledgements were expressed for all — 
though neither the horses nor purse were accepted. 
This gave an opportunity to M'Kenzie, to display a 
trait of chivalric gallantry that cannot be too much 
admired. " Give me his charger, then ;" he feelingly 
exclaimed, " it shall never be said, that the horse that 
carried Tom Pinckney, was ever employed against 
the friends and the cause that were dear to him." 



BENEDICT APtNOLD. 

That treachery creates its own punishment, and to 
the detestation of the world adds, the inward agony 
" that passeth show," is strikingly exemplified in the 
history of the apostate Arnold. What were the results 
of his desertion ? The fair fame acquired by his early 
exertions, as a Patriot soldier, was blasted. Children 
that had learnt to lisp his deeds of gallantry, now 



ARNOLD. 289 

shuddered with abhorrence at his name. Execrated 
by his former friends, despised by his new associates, 
proscribed by his country, reluctantly obeyed, and by 
the meanest sentinel held in supreme contempt, his life 
was a constant scene of apprehension, misery, and 
remorse. A cloud hun^ over his fortunes that shaded 
his countenance with the gloom of despair, and betray- 
ed the increasing agonies of his guilty heart. That 
such was the state of his mind is clear, from his anxiety 
to learn from others, what they supposed his fate would 
be should he fall into the hands of his countrymen. 
While commanding tlie predatory expedition on the 
shores of Virginia, a service peculiarly suited to his 
character, it is stated, that on one occasion, when some 
danger appeared of his being taken, he asked an officer 
near him, — " What treatment think you, Sir, am I to 
look for should the rebels make me their prisoner." 
** I have no doubt," replied the oflicer, " though my 
frankness may offend, but that they will cut off the leg 
that was wounded in storming the British Lines at 
Saratoga, and bury it with the honours of war, but 
having no respect for the rest of your body, they will 
gibbet it." The contempt that followed him through 
life, is further illustrated by the speech of the present 
Lord Lauderdale, who, perceiving Arnold on the right 
hand of the King, and near his person, as he addressed 
his Parliament, declared, on his return to the Com- 
mons, " that however gracious the language he had 
heard from the throne, his indignation could not but 
be highly excited, beholding, as he had done, his Ma- 
jesty supported by a traitor." And on another occasion, 
Lord Surry, since Duke of Norfolk, rising to speak in 
the House of Commons, and perceiving Arnold in the 
gallery, sat down with precipitation, exclaiming, " I 
will not speak while that man (pointing to him) is in 
the House." I myself witnessed a remarkably strong 

37 



290 ARNOLD. 

proof of it. Sitting in a Coffee-house at Cowes, in 
1792, with a British officer of high distinction, he pur- 
posely turned the conversation on the blessings of the 
Americans, declaring with earnestness, that he believ- 
ed them happier, and more to be envied than any peo- 
ple in the world. A stranger who sat near, and who 
appeared intent on these encomiums, rose hastily and 
left the room, when my companion said, " I perceive 
that you are unacquainted with the traitor, once the 
pride of your army; the man who has just retired is 
Benedict Arnold. The language which I used must 
have appeared extravagant. I spoke of America with 
enthusiasm, to make him feel his degradation, as no 
one, in my opinion, so highly merits execration." 
Well then may we say to fame, 

" Here and there leave a blank in the page, 
" To record the fair deeds of his youth. 
" When you speak of the deeds of his age, 
^' Leave a blank for his honour and truth." 

Sir C. H. Williams 

Or Still more forcibly to speak our abhorrence, 

" Let Ignominy brand his hated name, 

" Let modest matrons at its mention start, 

'' And blushing virgins, when they read our annals; 

" Skip o'er the guilty page that hold his legend, 

" And blots the noble work." Shakspeare. 

It must ever be lamented, that while so generous 
and high spirited a soldier as Andre paid the penalty 
of the treason, the traitor should live to enjoy pecu- 
niary recompense and command. I cannot say honour , 
for from the moment of his apostacy, he sunk into the 
most profound abyss of infamy. The very services 
required of him, showed the opinion of the Com- 
mander in Chief. What was the object in Virginia ? 
Plunder, What at New-London ? Destruction, He 
was an adept at both, and failed not to add to the 



ARNOLD. 291 

black catalogue of his former atrocities. To finish the 
climax of iniquity, as if insensible to the results con- 
templated by his treason, the destruction of the liber- 
ties of his country, and of the friends who had fought 
by his side, he has presumed to say, — '' That as Major 
Andre came within the American posts at his request, 
he ought also, under the same sanction, to have been 
allowed to return in safety." In other words ; after 
having obtained every possible information as to our 
strength and resources, and having learnt the points at 
which West Point was most assailable, that he should 
have been allowed to communicate all this to an active 
enemy, prepared to take advantage of it. Such is his 
reasoning. He then proceeds to threats. " I have 
further to observe, that forty gentlemen, inhabitants of 
South-Carolina, have justly forfeited their lives, which 
have hitherto been spared, through the clemency of his 
Excellency Sir Henry Clinton, who cannot, with pro- 
priety, extend his mercy to them any longer, if Major 
Andre suffers, which will open a scene of blood at 
which humanity will revolt." It is well known that 
the falsity of the accusation against these patriotic 
citizens was so gross, that the British never attempted 
to support it. Had but a shadow of reason appeared 
to countenance it, there is no doubt but that severity 
would have been pushed to its utmost limit. 



MAJOR ANDRE. 

It is certainly a very singular circumstance, that 
Andre should, in a very satirical Poem, have foretold 
his own fate. It was called the " Cow Chace,^^ and was 
published by Rivington, at New-York, in consequence 



292 ANDRE. 

of the failure r^f an expedition undertaken by Wayne 
for the i)iirpose of collecting cattle. Great liberties are 
taken with the American officers employed on the 
occasion. With 

" Harry Lee and his Dragoons, and Proctor with his cannon." 

but the point of his irony seemed particularly aimed 
at Wayne, whose entire baggage, he asserts, was taken, 
containing 

" His Congress dollars, and his prog, 
" His military speeches : 
" His cornstalk whiskey for his grog, 
" Black stockings and blue breeches. 

And concludes by observing, that it is necessary to 
check the current of satire, 

'' Lest the same warrio-drover Wayne, 
" Should catch — and hang the Poet." 

He was actually taken by a party from the division 
of the army immediately under the command of Wayne. 



CAPTORS OF ANDRE. 

I SHALL not further notice the attempt to take from 
the captors of Major Andre, the credit so justly ac- 
quired by their refusing the bribes which he offered, 
than to express my satisfaction at its complete failure. 
To deprive such men of honours, that not only estab- 
lished their fame, but increased the reputation of their 
country, merely on report, and the suggestions of the 
prisoner, is, indeed, as has been forcibly said, — " To 
tear the fairest leaf from our history." But after the 



CAPTORS OF ANDRE. 293 

insult offered to public sentiment, by the attempt to in- 
sinuate that Putnam wanted courage; that the veteran> 
who through a long course of service, and to his last 
hour possessed the entire confidence of the Father of 
his country, whose achievements the painter and his« 
torian have delighted to celebrate, shrunk from his 
duty, we may well say, 

" What worth so strong 
" Can tie the gall up in the slanderous tongue." Shaespeare. 

Fascinated by the manners and character of Major 
Andre, and particularly by the firmness he displayed, it 
is evident that Major Talmadge was prepared to 
believe whatever he might assert ; for he stands too 
high in the estimation of his brother officers, and of 
the community, to be suspected of a desire to depre- 
ciate the merits of men to whom honour is due. But 
why such delay — why suffer medals to be delivered to 
them in presence of the army, in testimony o^ fidelity. 
Why suffer Congress to settle a pension on each, re- 
citing in their journals, " In consequence of their virtue 
in refusing a large sum offered to them by Major 
Andre, as a bribe to permit him to escape ;" and then, 
after a lapse of 37 years, assert, " that had the bribe 
been higher, the men possessing the blessings of their 
country, w^ould have been stigmatised by its curses." 
An extract of a letter from General Hamilton, in 1780, 
to Colonel Sears, of Boston, settles the point to my 
satisfaction. He says, " to the conduct of Arnold, that 
of the captors of Andre forms a striking contrast. He 
tempted their integrity with the offer of his watch, his 
horse, and any sum of money they should name. They 
rejected his offers with indignation; and the gold 
which could seduce a man, high in the esteem and 
confidence of his country, who had the remembrance 
of past exploits, the motives of present reputation and 
future glory to prop his integrity, had no charms for 



294 CAPTORS OF ANDRE. 

three simple countrymen, leaning only on their virtue 
and a sense of their duty." While Arnold is handed 
down with execration to future times, posterity will 
repeat with reverence the name of Van Wert, Pauld- 
ing, and Williams. 

To commemorate the capture of Major Andre, 
Adjutant General of the British army, Congress or- 
dered a Medal to be struck, highly flattering to the 
patriotic virtue of the soldiers who arrested him : 

Device. — A Shield. 
Legend, — Fidelity. 
Reverse* — A Wreath. 
Legend, — Vincit Amor Patri^. 



COMPARATIVE SUFFERING OF THE CONTENDING 
ARMIES. 



Before I make a comparison relative to the degrees 
of calamitous suffering experienced by the contending 
armies, I would briefly contrast their situation at the 
commencement of hostilities, when candour will not 
hesitate to pronouce, that every advantage was on the 
side of the British forces. Nor would it surprise, 
when my statement is brought ta a conclusion, that 
my reader should accord with the opinion of a late 
writer, and exclaim, *' How much must we ever ad- 
mire the constancy and heroism of that band, whom 
defeat could not conquer, or calamity subdue — who 
rallied in the face of adverse fortune, and found a 
noble compensation for her reverses in the sacredness 
of that cause to which they had offered up the libation 
of their blood, and the tribute of their lives. A cause 
on which they had conferred an unfading splendour by 
the practice, of more than the courtesies of civilized 
warfare, in the midst of provocations, which would 
have justified a retaliation full, sanguinary, and ex- 
terminating." 

The invaders approached our coasts prepared at all 
points for conquest. Attached by the tenderest ties of 
affection and consanguinity to the Parent State, the 
people of America had indulged the delusive idea, 
that a few commercial restrictions, aided by the justice 
of their claims, and humility with which they were 
offered to the throne, would speedily effect a recon- 



296 COMl'ARATIVE SUFFERING OF 

ciliation with it. An appeal to arms had never been 
seriously contemplated, — no preparation had been 
made for defence, — and an absolute want of every 
military implement, of ammunition, troops, and money, 
prevailed throughout the continent, when the peace- 
able inhabitants beheld themselves- invaded by the 
hostile armies of a nation, according to the prejudice 
of long cherished opinion, the most powerful and 
bravest in the world. 

While the distresses experienced were fully propor- 
tioned to the extent of the delusion, they produced the 
advantage of rendering the firmness of the American 
character conspicuously eminent. The rich contri- 
buted their fortunes for the support of the war — the 
enlightened their abilities, to fix the wavering, con- 
vince the unfriendly, and give unanimity to all. A 
general conformity of opinion, with regard to the 
necessity of opposition, was the immediate conse- 
quence. Every idea of personal danger or incon- 
venience, was lost in the desire of contributing to the 
public weal. The spirit of enterprise was universal — 
it nerved every arm, and animated every bosom. Old 
age forgot its weakness — decrepitude its infirmities — 
the levities of youth were laid aside, and the only 
contention was, who should be foremost in the career 
of glory — who should render the most essential ser- 
vices to his country. These circumstances premised, 
we can more justly estimate the virtues and sufferings 
of the hostile armies contending for superiority. 

Lord Cornvvailis, in a letter to Lord George Ger- 
maine, giving an account of the battle of Guilford, 
says, *' The conduct and actions of the officers and 
soldiers that compose this little army, will do more 
justice to their merit, than 1 can do by words. Their 
persevering intrepidity in action, their invincible 
patience in the hardships and fatigues of a march of 
above six hundred miles, in which they forded several 



THE CONTENDING ARMIES. 297 

Iar2;e rivers and numberless creeks, many of which 
would be reckoned large rivers in any other country in 
the world, without tents or covering against the cli- 
mate, and often without provisions, will sufficiently 
manifest their ardent zeal for the honour and interest 
of their Sovereign and country." 

If a patient endurance of [)rivations and difficulties, 
such as are here mentioned, give claim to distinction, 
how pre-eminently superior must we consider the me- 
rits of the Continental Soldiers, contending without a 
murmur, through a long course of service, against the 
accumulated miseries o^ famine, nakedness and dis- 
ease. The British, though occasionally restricted in 
the indulgence of their appetites, and scantily supplied 
with food, were abundantly furnished with every neces- 
sary article of clothing, were well shod, enjoyed an 
ample supply of salt and liquor, when engaged in 
active service ; and in sickness, were liberally sup- 
ported with wine, medicine, and every comfort that 
could mitigate the severity of disease. Their arms 
and accoutrements were perfect, and ammunition so 
abundant, that no soldier carried less than thirty-six 
rounds ; and when in expectation of battle, each indi- 
vidual was accommodated with a double supply. On 
the other hand, the Continental Troops, exposed to 
every inclemency of weather, without one comfortable 
article of clothing, without shoes, without blankets, 
without salt, liquor, or medicine, poorly fed, badly 
armed, and scantily furnished with ammunition, could 
alone support the severity of their trials, by the steadi- 
ness of their principles, and perfect conviction of the 
justice of the cause in which ihey fought. Their zeal 
too acquired an energy which danger seemed only to 
improve ; and from adversity they derived new honour 
by the inflexible firmness with which they met its 
severest trials. This is no delusive representation I 
With less devotion to their cherished creed, " Or Death, 

.^8 



298 COMPARATIVE SUFFERIiNG OF 

or Libertp,^^ nature must have sunk under the oppres- 
sion of calamity. Let us for a moment more parti- 
cularly view the miseries to which they were exposed ! 
When on a march, from the want of shoes, they 
might have been traced by the blood flowing from their 
lacerated feet. When in camp, the most gallant sol- 
diers oi the line, who never turned their backs upon 
an enemy, have often been discovered shrinking from 
observation, and soliciting to be excused from duty, 
from the shame attending the absolute want of clothing 
to cover their nakedness. To the comforts enjoyed 
by their opponents they were altogether strangers. 
Salt was a luxury when it could be obtained, and 
liquor still more so ; but rarely indeed did they partake 
of either. Often were they known to subsist for 
weeks together on Rice alone ; the food (from the re- 
ceived opinion that it produced blindness) the most 
hateful to them ; unless, when the neighbouring ponds 
and ditches afforded a mess of Frogs and Crayfish, or 
a scanty supply was tendered of beef, so miserably 
poor, that it was not uncommon to support for slaugh- 
ter, the wretched animal on which they were invited 
to feed. 

A letter from the Baron de Kalb, dated August 14th, 
1780, to the Chevalier de la Luzerne, gives the clear- 
est proofs, both of their sufferings and fidelity. He 
writes, "You may judge of the virtues of our small 
army from the following fact. We have, for several 
days, lived upon nothing but peaches, and 1 have heard 
no complaint. There has been no desertion." 

Of liquor it would be farcical to speak. One quart 
of spirits per head to each officer, one gill to every 
private sentinel, being the allowance distributed once 
every fortnight by the issuing Commissary. Arms, 
with the exception of bayonets, were in sufficient 
abundance ; but the supply of ammunition so very 
scanty, that on one occasion, when called on to ex- 



THE CONTENDING ARMIES. 299 

amine the quantity possessed by the Legion Infantry, 
in momentary expectation of engaging the British, 
within view of their post at the Quarter-House, I 
found that it did not exceed three rounds to a man. 
This is a topic that may, with propriety, be more par- 
ticularly dwelt upon, since deprived of the most essen- 
tial means of resistance, to face danger with undaunted 
spirit, gave evident proof of superior fortitude, and 
higher title to praise. I will mention an occurrence 
of a very singular nature, and certainly interesting, as 
the fate of the army in a great measure depended on it. 
After the retreat of the American army across the 
Yadkin, Dr. William Read, superintending the Gene- 
ral Hospital, received instruction from General Greene 
to organize a guard of invalids and convalescents, as 
well for the protection of the stores of the Department, 
as for the better security of several prisoners commit- 
ted to his charge. Thirty stand of arms was furnished 
for the purpose. Such, at the moment, was the en- 
feebled state of the army, that the General, ordering 
Dr. Read to incline to the left, and to reach Virginia 
by the nearest route, said, — '' You are to march 
through a country much disaffected, yet I can neither 
spare you a sufficiency of ammunition, nor a military 
superintendant; you must use every exertion to defend 
yourself, and all expedition to reach your destination." 
The General himself, taking a road to the right, an 
ammunition wagon that had been sent forward, de- 
viated from its course, and actually preceded the party 
attached to the Hospital Department. On its being 
discovered that it was missing, Major Call, of Wash- 
ington's, was detached in search of it, but was unsuc- 
cessful in all his inquiries, when falling in with Dr. 
Read, he delivered a letter from the General, earnestly 
urging him to use every possible means to discover 
and secure it, and to send the contents, which were 
highly important to the army, with all expedition, and 



300 COMPARATIVE SUFFERING OF 

by the most direct route to him. On reaching Salem, 
the wagon, which had been particularly described by 
the General, was discovered in the principal street, 
locked up, and to all appearance its contents untouch- 
ed. A report had been spread that Cornwallis had 
crossed the Yadkin, and several Georgia families flying 
to the North, and the women, generally wearing red 
cloaks, appearing in view, had been mistaken by the 
drivers for the enemy, who immediately cut loose their 
horses, abandoned their charge, and mounting them, 
precipitately fled. Dr. Read, in compliance with his 
instructions, now applied to Mr. Trangut Baggu, the 
respectable principal of the Moravian Settlement, tell- 
ing him that necessity compelled him immediately to 
put in requisition a certain number of men and horses, 
whose services could not be dispensed with, and who 
acting faithfully, would be liberally rewarded. Abun- 
dant objections were immediately raised, as any service 
promoting the purposes of war, militated directly 
against the principles of the Society ; but these being 
quickly overruled, the cartridges which the wagon con- 
tained were carefully packed in sacks, and sent off on 
six stout horses, under the direction of men who could 
be relied on, and who, crossing the country by an un- 
frequented route, reached the General in safety. To 
the honour of the Superintendant, I was informed by 
Dr. Read, that tendering pay for the attention shown to 
the sick and wounded, he said, " they were sufficiently 
afllicted by their sufferings, and that he could not think 
of aggravating misfortune by draining their purses." 
To Lieutenant Saunders, an officer severely wounded, 
who wished to compensate him for distinguished civili- 
ties received, by his orders, he said, " were I disposed 
to take your money, humanity would forbid it. The 
groans that you uttered during the last night, too sen- 
sibly excite my pity to suffer me to think of receiving 
compensation for the trifling services I have been able 



THE CONTENDING ARMIES. 301 

to render you." When Dr. Read wished to settle his 
own private bill, the worthy Principal decidedly refused 
all remuneration, saying, with much expression of 
feeling, — " You have passed the night without sleep, 
administering comfort and consolation to the afflicted; 
you have mitigated the sufferings of your fellow men ; 
such conduct too highly excites my admiration, to 
suffer me to treat you otherwise than as a brother. 
Accept, gratuitously, what you have received, and be 
assured, that to the best that 1 can bestow you shall 
ever be welcome." 

In European warfare the loss of a single ammunition 
wagon would be regarded as a circumstance too trivial 
to excite anxiety, or to be mentioned with regret; but 
at the period which I speak of, the scarcity of powder 
and ball was such that it became necessary to husband 
them with the strictest attention ; and it is not to be 
questioned, but that the chance of victory to America, 
at the well contested battle of Guilford, which imme- 
diately followed, must have been greatly diminished 
but for the important service rendered by Dr. Read. 
But at a later period, the difficulties arising from the 
want of ammunition were still further increased. It is 
well known, that in the year 1781, when the services 
of General Marion were most required to check the 
depredations of an active enemy, that from the defi- 
ciency of this essential article, he was too frequently 
compelled to remain in a state of inactivity. Writing 
to General Greene on the subject, Colonel Otho Wil- 
liams, the second in command, replied, " General 
Greene being absent, I took the liberty of opening your 
letter of the 9th instant. Our stock of ammunition is 
quite exhausted. We have not an ounce of powder, 
nor a cartridge in store." 

To return to the miseries sustained from other pri- 
vations. 



302 COMPARATIV E SUFFERING OF 

An officer of rank, belonging to our army, severely 
wounded at Gates' defeat, informed me, that as he 
passed over the field of battle in the wagon which was 
to convey him to Camden, a Sergeant of the 33d 
British Regiment looking into it, with an expression of 
generous sym|)athy, said, '* You appear, Sir, severely 
injured, and much exhausted by the loss of blood. 
Take my canteen, its contents may revive and 
strengthen you/' An expression of compassionate 
feeling, at all times fascinating, could not, at such a 
period, be received but with peculiar gratitude. The 
gift was accepted, and contained wine of an excellent 
quality. Let me suppose that other soldiers were 
supplied with liquor as liberally as this benevolent 
Sergeant, and how great the contrast with the condi- 
tion of our unfortunates, who, for many days previous 
to the battle, had not, even under the pressure of their 
greatest fatigues, been cheered with a single glass of 
spirits. Dr. William Read, superintending the Conti- 
nental Hospital at Flillsborough, subsequent to the 
defeat at Camden, making a representation to General 
Gates, of the deplorable condition of the sick and 
wounded, was asked by him, " What have you to com- 
fort them ?" '' Literally nothing," replied Dr. Read. 
" Then," rejoined the General, " their situation is 
truly deplorable, since I neither possess the means of 
yielding present relief, nor immediate prospect of 
affording any." 

Even to those who still retained their health, the 
loss of baggage was attended with incalculable in- 
crease of calamity — the comfort of a necessary change 
of linen was denied ; and more than one officer, from 
the impossibility of appearing with decency on parade, 
was compelled altogether to avoid it. 

Of the deplorable situation of the Continental offi- 
cers, even of the highest grade, some idea may be 
formed from the fact I am about to relate, and which 



THE CONTENDING ARMIES. 30S 

may be relied on as perfectly correct. Dr. Fayssoux 
joining the army of General Greene in North Caro- 
lina, called at the hut of General Finger, the second 
in command, but was refused admission. The Doctor 
insisted on his right to enter, the sentinel in conformity 
to his orders, denied it. The altercation was heard by 
the General, who recognizing the voice of his friend, 
desired that he might be allowed to pass into the hut. 
*' Pardon me, Doctor," said the General, who lay on 
the ground wrapped up in an old military cloak, " for 
giving you so ungracious a reception ; but, the fact is, 
the chances of war have robbed me of every comfort, 
and I confined myself to solitude and an old cloak, 
while my washerwoman prepares for a future occasion, 
the only shirt I own." If an officer of distinguished rank, 
universally beloved and respected, for whose accommo- 
dation there was not an individual in the service who 
would not have made sacrifices, was thus circumstanced, 
what must have been the miseries of the lower grades, 
and wretchedness of the private sentinels ? Applying to 
a gentleman, on the accuracy of whose information I 
could place the most implicit confidence, relative to 
the sufferings of the army after the battle of Guilford, 
he replied, " 1 have known the whole army subsist for 
several days on Indian Corn, grated down on tin can- 
teens, in which holes had been punched for the occa- 
sion, having no other subsistence of bread kind, every 
Mill having been destroyed by the enemy. This was 
particularly the case during the pursuit of the army of 
Cornwallis retiring upon Wilmington, when such was 
the extremity of suffering, from the want of animal 
food, that the Continental Soldiers were feign to put 
up with the offal left in the slaughter-pens of the re- 
treating army. Of our privations relative to the com- 
forts of necessary clothing against the inclemencies of 
a rigorous season, I can, with truth, assure you, that 
for the greater, part of the winter 1 shared with Gen- 



304 COMPARATIVE SUFFERING OF 

eral Huger and Colonel Kosciusko, an old cloak of the 
General's, being without a blanket, or any other pro- 
tection whatever." 

From long marches, incessant fatigue, and scanty and 
unwholesome food, the diseases which prevailed, had, 
for the most part, a malignant tendency, and stimulants 
were considered as essential to counteract their threat- 
ening symptoms. Wine, spirit, and the medicines that 
were most requisite, were not to be procured, and on 
decoctions of snake-root alone, to obtain which the 
whole country was ransacked, depended the chance to 
the afflicted, of recovery. Where surgery was neces- 
sary to give relief, the difficulty to the operator was no 
less distressing. When the gallant Captain Watts, of 
Washington's, fell at Eutaw, a ball having passed 
through his lungs, Dr. Irvine assured me that he was 
compelled to cut up a tent found on the field to make 
bandages, before he could dress his wounds. On 
another occasion, 1 knew a gentleman attached to the 
Medical Department, whose anxious mother, at the 
moment of his departure for the army, apprehending 
accident to himself, slipped six rolls of bandages into 
his portmanteau, and who assured me, that a smart 
engagement speedily following, none other were to be 
found for the relief of the wounded, than the bandages 
in his possession. The evidence of the medical gentle- 
men who still survive, Drs. Read, Irvine, Broomfield, 
and Stephens, if it were necessary to call for it, would 
fully corroborate the statement made of the total want 
of the supplies essential to the support of exhausted 
nature. And in more than one instance, I have myself 
beheld the hardy veteran sink into his grave, to whom 
even a small portion of renovating wine or cordial 
might have restored sufficient vigour to resist the fatal 
pressure of disease. In addition to this evil, despon- 
dency too frequently gave birth to tbat longing after 
home, productive of the most fatal consequences. One 



THE CONTENDING ARMIES. 305 

instance is very strongly impressed on my recollection. 
Emblen, one of the most distinguished soldiers of the 
Legion, who had but a few days before exhibited, in 
action, consummate bravery, applied to Captain Ru- 
dolph for permission to visit his friends in Jersey. *' I 
would willingly grauc you i^ermission," said Rudolph, 
" but consider, Emblen, how pernicious the example 
which you set. Others will think themselves equally 
entitled with yourself to demand a furlough, and what 
will be the conspquence. If granted, much injury will 
he done to the service, if refused, just cause given for 
offence." " I know Captain, that you are right," replied 
the unfortunate petitioner, "but sensibly feel, that to me 
deninal is death." He had not, at the period, a symp- 
tom of disease, never after uttered a complaint, and in 
three days was a corpse. The Irish and Northern 
soldiers, though insensible of danger in the field, were, 
in the event of sickness, more than all others subject to 
despondency ; insomuch, that it was constantly said, 
" Let a Yankee or Irishman say, / will die, and all 
medical aid might be withheld, since die he would.^^ 
Equalj then, in active courage to their adversaries, I do 
not consider it an unfair conclusion, to say, that in 
adverse fortune, they greatly surpassed them, or pro- 
bably any other soldiers that ever took the field. The 
opinion of General Charles Lee, which I consider as 
high authority, was to this effect. " I solemnly declare, 
that were it at my choice to select from all the nations 
of the earth, to form an excellent and perfect army, 1 
would without hesitation give the preference to Ame- 
ricans. By publishing this opinion, I cannot incur the 
suspicion of paying court to their vanity, as it is noto- 
riously the language which I have ever held."* 

The sentiment which I have advanced is still further 
corroborated by the steadiness with which they adhered 

-'- Lee's Memoir;? 

.S9 



Sm COMPARATIVE SUFFERING OF 

to the standard of their country, since in defiance of all 
the temptations held out to encourage desertion, par- 
don for treason, pecuniary reward, and liberal promo- 
tion, the miseries of rags and rice were forgotten, and 
the sufferings of the immediate hour lost, in the cheer- 
ing hope of a more propitious futurity. The Anecdote 
which follows evinces the accuracy of my statement. 
During the severity of the winter campaign in North 
Carolina, General Greene, passing a sentinel who was 
barefoot, said, " I fear, my good fellow, you must suffer 
from cold." " Pretty much so," was the reply ; " but 
I do not complain, because I know that I should fare 
better, had our General power to procure supplies. 
They say, however, that in a few days we shall have a 
light, and then, by the blessing of God, I shall take 
care to secure a pair of shoes." 

Nor did the retirement of the enemy within their 
lines, cause any mitigation of suffering. Who but one 
that experienced the calamity, can form a conception 
of the wretchedness of the soldier exposed, in a dreary 
pine barren, to the scorching heat of an almost vertical 
sun, without a breeze to renovate his enfeebled strength, 
or a single comfort to cheer him, experiencing the still 
severer evils of the night, when baleful vapours, loaded 
with pestilential effluvium, and dews that chilled even 
to the marrow of his bones, associated with the inces- 
sant buzzing and goading stings of innumerable insects, 
bid defiance to the comfort and refreshment of sleep, 
and caused the day, with its comparatively trivial hor- 
rors, to be longed for again. 

To the enemy the loss of men by desertion, was 
alone prevented by the difficulties impeding every 
effort to escape. The Navy, always on the alert, cut 
off every possibility of escape by water; and by land, 
the Neck on which Charleston stands was the only 
outlet. Yet many did pass it, and it was to the vigi- 
lance alone of their Black Dragoons, whose orders 



THE CONTENDING ARMIES. 307 

were " to strike, and spare not," that the number was 
not greatly augmented. Had but the opportunity been 
afforded to the battalions of Hesse, few of their num- 
ber would ever have returned to Germany. Fourteen 
of these unfortunates, detected on one occasion in an 
attempt to escape, were found by our patrol, near 
their outposts, cut up to atoms. And there need no 
stronger proof of their anxiety to remain, than to men- 
tion, that on the night of the evacuation of the city, 
considerably upvs^ards of one hundred Germans were 
brought to the main Guard, who had concealed them- 
selves in chimnies and common sewers, risking their 
lives, and supporting for many days all the miseries of 
hunger and thirst, rather than return to their Prince, 
and the soil of their nativity. 

I would next endeavour, by candid comparison, to 
prove, that in generosity to their enemies the soldiers 
of the American army had decided claims to superiority. 
The intrepid band, whose devotion to the cause of 
Liberty had taught them not only how to act, but how 
to suffer, by the same inspiration of exalted feeling, 
had learnt to temper the triumphs of victory with 
mercy and forbearance. R(^ady on all occasions to meet 
and actively repel the hostile attacks of an approach- 
ing enemy, none were more happy to spare a suppliant 
foe, than the soldiers of America. 

Parcere subjectis et debellare superbos, 

was the cherished principle of their hearts, and they 
never suffered even the most outrageous provocation, 
to cause the slightest deviation from it. Witness the 
moderation of the conquerors at Trenton, Saratoga, 
the Cowpens, and Eutaw. Contrast the forbearance 
of Lieutenant Colonel Lee, preventing the pursuit of 
the misguided Insurgents under Pyle, with the severity 
of Tarleton, on every occasion where the opportunity 
was offered, to indulge his propensity to slaughter; 



308 COMPARATIVE SUFFERING OF 

and finally, having viewed the refinement in cruelty of 
Arnold at Fort Griswold, wading through blood to 
victory, turn to the siege of York-Town, and remem- 
ber how honourable to his detachment, storming the 
advanced redoubt of the British, the expression of the 
Marquis de la Fayette. " That incapable of imitating 
examples of barbarity, and forgeting recent provoca- 
tions, they spared every man that ceased to resist." 
Still more fully to show how strong the desire of 
the Americans to soften asperities towards the unfor- 
tunate, I would record the generous forbearance 
observed, in an hour of extreme irritation, towards rhe 
wife and child of the traitor Arnold. Soon as it was 
known to him that his guilt was discovered to its full 
extent, Arnold, entering the apartment of his wife, ex- 
claimed, " All is lost, — Andre is a prisoner, — burn all 
my papers ; I fly to New-York." The unfortunate 
lady fainted and fell. Her servants, apprised of the 
circumstancje by the cries of the child, whom she fed 
at the breast, by the application of proper remedies, 
restored her senses ; but recollecting that she was in the 
midst of friends treacherously forsaken, and of an army 
that her husband had basely endeavoured to betray, it 
may well be imagined, that her anguish was ineffable. 
She trembled lest he should have been arrested in his 
flight, and distracted by her fears, called aloud for pardon. 
General Washington, who knew her to be an excellent 
wife, and respected her as a good mother, unwilling to 
increase the poignancy of her anguish by prolonging 
suspense, with delicate kindness informed her, that the. 
object of her solicitude had escaped his pursuers, and 
was safe on board the Vulture sloop of war. His 
attentions did not stop at this point. It was left at her 
option to receive safe conduct to the British lipes, or to 
return to her friends and family in Philadelphia. She 
said, " She would share the fate of her husband ; but, 
before joining him, was anxious to see her parents, and 



THE CONTENDING ARMIES. 309 

bid them a tender and final adieu." In this request 
too she was indulged. Not only the General himself, 
but even the sternest Republicans, rejected the idea of 
making her answerable for the apostacy and crime of 
her husband; and of this moderation a signal proof 
was immediately given. In a town where she stopped, 
on her way to Philadelphia, preparations were on foot 
to burn Arnold in effigy. On its being announced to 
the populace, that his wife was within its limits, hu- 
manity assuaged the irritations of just indignation, 
and these preparations were, by universal consent, sus- 
pended. I mention with pleasure, the conduct of the 
Chevalier de la Luzerne on this occasion. Letters 
were found among the papers of Arnold, which treated 
his character with indignity. They were brought to 
him, and he at once consigned them to the flames, 
without the slightest expression of curiosity to know 
their contents. 

It is equally certain, that in the exercise of recipro- 
cal good offices and acts of kindness to each other, 
the soldiers of America were actuated by sentiments 
of affectionate feeling, with which their adversaries 
appear to have been altogether unacquainted. Their 
association in difficulty, the adverse events which they 
had shared together, united their minds and their affec- 
tions in the closest ties. It rendered the severities of 
service more supportable, soothed the afflictions of the 
sick and wounded, and even to the bed of death, con- 
veyed the most grateful consolations. To contribute 
to the comfort of a suffering companion, I know not 
the man who would not have sacrificed every con- 
sideration of self', and if even a glimmering prospect 
appeared of procuring relief, who wowld not, with 
unceasing industry, have aimed at its attainment. — 
This was, by no means, the case in the British army ; 
distinction of rank, and inequality of fortune, might 
have weakened the enthusiasm of military attachment, 



310 COMPARATIVE SUFFERING OF 

and even fashion^ may have had its influences in pre- 
venting the i^reatest intimates from depending too much 
on each other. It may be stated in opposition to my 
assertion, that after the fatal lot had been drawn by 
Sir Charles Asgill, which doomed him as a victim of 
retaliation, to death, that his friend Ludlow would not 
consent to be separated from him. But, it must be 
recollected, that their intimacy had been formed in 
early life at Westminster School, long before their en- 
tering into the army ; and it was never known, in the 
hour of adversity, that one Westminster would forsake 
another. I will adduce, in support of my charge, an 
Anecdote received from the distinguished personage to 
whom it particularly relates. An officer of the Guards, 
severely wounded at Guilford, was passing the terK of 
Colonel Howard, since Lord Suffolk, on a litter, the 
morning subsequent to the battle, when thus addressed 
by him : — *' Ha, Jack, my good fellow, how do you 
find yourself to day ?" " In much agony, Colonel ; 
but I think likely to feel better, if favoured by a cup 
of the good tea which I see before you." " Why, as 
to the tea, Jack," said the Colonel, " you shall be 
welcome to it ; but, damn me if I would find sugar in 
this desolate wilderness for a brother." " Pass on," 
said the wounded man, " refreshment so ungraciously 
bestowed, could do me no good." 

But, with what shadow of excuse could any man 
attempt to palliate the insolence, and still more, the 
ingratitude of which there were perpetual examples. 
The contempt w^ith which they affected to regard the 
citizens of America, the free indulgence of insolence 
towards captives, placed by the chances of war within 
their power, increased the arrogance of many military 

* An officer of the puards assured me, that however great the familiarity 
and appearance of friendship in the guard room, or in mixed society, that it 
gave no sanction to an intimacy in the family of an associate, or even \o 
make a visit, unless by particular invitation. 



THE CONTENDING ARMIES. 311 

characters to so high a pitch, that they actually ap- 
peared to consider themselves as beings of a superior 
order. The military in France, in latter times, apply- 
ing the contemptuous appellation of pequins to the 
rest of the world, were not more arrogant. A thou- 
sand instances gave proof of it in Charleston. One 
has been particularly mentioned. A military coxcomb 
of the garrison, having a dispute with a gentleman in 
the Civil Department, significantly pointing to his 
coat, exclaimed, " I, Sir, by my coat, am a gentleman. 
You a Mohair, a mere man of fustian, and too con- 
temptible to excite resentment." Of their ingratitude 
I will give a very striking example. They had but 
few friends in Carolina, but those who had adhered to 
them did it with a pride and devotion that claimed 
their utmost gratitude. Yet it is certain, that they 
laughed at and despised the very persons to whom 
they were the most indebted. 

The Harry Barry, so frequently mentioned in these 
Anecdotes, while in public he flattered with marked 
attention, was well known in the circle of his inti- 
mates, to ridicule in miserable doggerel the females, at 
the shrine of whose beauty, he affected to pay his ado- 
ration. And after the war, I heard a very respectable 
refugee declare, that having been absent from England 
for some time, and on his return, meeting in the streets 
of London with Major Skelly, who, when in the gar- 
rison of Charleston, had been received in his family 
on the footing of a brother, he began anxiously to 
inquire about the fortunes of many of their former 
acquaintances, when laconically and with a very signi- 
ficant bow, he replied, " Mr. R , I am a man of 

candour, and would not wish to deceive you. My 
Ammcan acquaintances were altogether the acquain- 
tances of convenience, and I have cut them all. I 
take the liberty, therefore, to wish you a very good 
morning.'- 



THE MOST ILLUSTRIOUS PATRIOTS 

OF GREAT BRITAIN, 
OPPOSED TO THE AMERICAN WAR. 



In looking back to the history of our Revolution, it 
is pleasing to recollect, that tlie characters throughout 
the United States, the most distinguished by their 
talents and their virtues, with scarcely an exception, 
embraced the principles which were to free their coun- 
try from a servile dependence upon a corrupt and 
tyrannical government. In Great Britain, the indi- 
viduals the most exalted in the esteem of the public — 
the wisest in council, — the most renowned for integ- 
rity, and entertaining the most correct vievi^s of the just 
rights of the people, and true interests of the nation, 
not only commended the zeal and unanimity with 
which the Colonists resisted the attempts of the admi- 
nistration to oppress them, but, both by their sentiments 
freely disseminated abroad, and irresistible eloquence 
on the floor of Parliament, encouraged them to persist 
in defence of their violated rights and privileges, even 
when sensible that successful opposition, by giving 
birth to the independency of the revolted Provinces, 
would rob the Crown of its brightest and most inesti- 
mable jewel. Ambition alone, it is generally said, 
bears predominant sway in the bosoms of political 
characters; but I cannot think that the line of conduct 



PATRIOTS OF GREAT BRITAIN, &c. SVo 

adopted by the distinguished men to whom I allude, 
proceeded either from a determined spirit of opposition, 
or the secret, though fondly cherished hope, that by 
rendering the acts of the Administration unpopular, 
they might open the way to their own advancement to 
power, and the attainment of the authority which 
would place the reins in their hands, by which the 
destinies of the nation were to be guided. Such con- 
tracted views were surely inconsistent with the well 
tried patriotism of many of the advocates of America. 
They opposed the inordinate strides of the Ministry 
towards the establishment of despotism, from a clear 
perception that their success in America, would be but 
the prelude to their efforts to destroy domestic liberty, 
and that the extinction of freedom in the Western 
world, would be speedily followed by its annihilation 
in their native land. In the House of Lords, the im- 
mortal Chatham, the Dukes of Richmond, Grafton, 
and Devonshire, the Marquis of Rockingham, the 
Lords Camden, Shelbourne, Fitzwilliam, Effingham, 
and others; in the House of Commons, Burke, Colo- 
nel Barre, Fox, David Hartley, Lord Thomas Caven- 
dish, General Conway, and Wilks; among men of 
letters, Drs. Price and Priestly, John Miller, of Glas- 
gow, advocated the resistance of the Americans, and 
rejoiced at their successes, as essentially beneficial to 
the liberty and happiness of the world. On the other 
hand, the Administration,- with blind infatuation, per- 
sisted in their resolution to put down opposition, and 
by the most absurd and gross mispresentations strove 
to render the people propitious to their views. The 
information which they might have received, and 
which could not have failed to dissipate the delusive 
hope of successfully terminating the war, was either 
not sought for, or when given, not attended to. I have 
often heard a respectable Loyalist, Mr, Henry Feron- 
ncmr, the first Refugee from South Carolina, who 



314 PATRIOTS OF GREAT BRITAIN 

readied Great Britain, declare, that when examined by 
the Lords North and Germaine, relative to the state of 
affairs in America, that although the first named of 
these noblemen listened with politeness and compla- 
cency to the statements which he made, that the last 
invariably checked the current of his information, 
where it did not altogether correspond with his views 
and cherished hopes of conquest. And it to this day 
remains a blot upon the character of the nation, that 
when the venerable Dr. Franklin was called up for 
examination before the Privy Council, that instead of 
the interrogations being made, that would have led to 
the development of the truth, and probably healed the 
wounds that were festering with incessant increase of 
irritation, that the stern and vindictive Wedderhourne 
was encouraged to indulge in a de^gree of ribaldry and 
invective, disgraceful to his character as a gentleman, 
and betraying an extent of prejudice, dishonourable to 
him as a man. The more certainly to effect their pur- 
poses, no calumny w^as restrained by the Administra- 
tion, no act nor device was left unessayed to excite to 
the highest pitch the resentments of the people against 
their persecuted brethren. The steadiness of their re- 
sistance to the arbitrary decrees, and the rejection of 
the burdens they wished to impose, were styled the 
stubborn aggressions of rebellious children against the 
just rights of their parent, an open violation of the duty 
and submission which nature demanded, and which 
ought to result from its love, and fostering care and 
protection. The avarice, too, of the people was excited 
by being perpetually told, that this obstinate race not 
only refused to contribute to a share in the expenditure 
lavished for their support and protection, but refused 
to bear a proportion of the burden of taxation, which, 
equitably divided, would greatly lessen the proportion, 
under existing circumstances, unjustly imposed on the 
Parent State. The people were deceived, and led to 



OPPOSED TO tHE AMERICAN WAR. 315 

approve the war. The opinions of the patriots of the 
nation were not so easily influenced. In proof it I will 
prpsent to my readers extracts from two letters of that 
excellent man and profound politician, the late Right 
Honourable William Windham, written to a deceased 
patriot of our own State, Paul Trapier, jun. Esq. who 
had bpen his intimate friend, and the companion of his 
early years, at Eaton. 



COPY OP A LETTER FROM THE HONOURABLE WILLIAM WINDHAM. 
TO PAUL TRAPIER, JUX. ESQ. OP SOUTH-CAROLINA, DATED 

" London, July SOth, ITJJ, 
*^ My Dear Friend, 

" An opportunity is at length given to me, of writing to you 
with some prospect of safe conveyance ; let me avail myself of the 
means offered to me, though it be only to send you a few lines — a few 
lines may answer the chief purpose of my writing, and relieve me 
from an uneasiness that has dwelt upon my mind, ever since the first 
interruption of communication between the two countries. You ma}' 
remember, that, though in all your letters you used to enter upon sub- 
jects of Politics, I seldom used to take much notice of them in return, 
or give you any satisfactory account of my opinions. The reason 
was, that at that time, the subject had never come within my con- 
sideration, nor had I employed my thoughts long enough on the 
matters you used to propose, to form any determinate opinion. 
Things soon after came to a crisis, in which it was no longer possible 
for a man of understanding or feeling to remain without inquiry ; and 
the result of that inquiry has been, to render me a Jinn and zealous 
friend, as Jirm and zealous as any one either in this country or 
youi'^s, to the cause in which you are engaged. Be assured, that 
through the whole of this busmess, my fears and hopes have kept 
exact pace with your's. I have exulted at your success, and repined 
at yoiu' miscarriage — have heard with as much grief any advantage 
of Howe, and triumphed as much at the success of Washington, 
as any man on your side the water. The hope is now lost for ever, 
of soeinff this countrv blended again with our former brethren on the 



316 PATRIOTS OF GREAT BRITAIN 

other side of the Atlantic, in bonds of mutual honour, interest, and 
afiection. The mischievous designs of a corrupt court, operating in 
the midst of universal luxury and depravity, have spread rancour and 
devastation through millions of people, that ought to have been 
united in the ties of brotherly love ; and shaken an empire to pieces, 
that was the greatest, and might have been the happiest on earth. 
But, out of this scene of evil, final good, I hope, will be produced. 
America, rising in the vigour of new-born virtue, will be better, per- 
haps, for her separation from this corrupt and depraved country, and 
will, I hope, long continue the asylum of freedom and virtue. For 
the fate of us here, I am much less solicitous, than for the general 
interests of mankind, the preservation of freedom in some part of 
the globe, and the success of a people engaged in so righteous a cause ; 
and these, I am happy to say, are the sentiments of numbers of the 
people, whom I rank among my friends. 

" Though you are now safely, I hope, established in Independence, 
and though this country, if it is to be judged by its public acts, has 
but little claim to kindness, yet all memory, I hope, will not be lost 
of those, (not an inconsiderable number) who had viewed with hor- 
ror, the measures that have been pursued, and of the hundreds and 
thousands who have had no other crime, than a total ignorance of 
what concerned them as well as you. I am fully persuaded, that 
there is a fund of candour, and honest good sense among the people 
here, that vv^ould have made three-fourths of them Partisans of Ame- 
rica, if the merits of the cause had been properly made laiown to 
ihem. . But, the higher orders of society are lost in vice and dissipa- 
tion, and the nation has been left to itself, abandoned to the wicked 
industry of the court. Nothing will save us, lost and devoted as we 
are, but a general insurrection of the lower orders of the people, 
purging off the contaminated spume, that has mantled over the top 
of the spring, and threatened to choke it up. 

" In all relations and situations, our sentiments and attachments 
vvill remain, I hope, the same ; and I shall be happy if friendship to 
an individual may dispose you to a more favourable regard of people, 
a great portion of whom, perhaps the greatest, are still such as deserve 
the name of countrymen and brethren. I could name many of those 
you formerly knew, warm in the sentiments which animate me. 
Many go with the stream of ministerial corruption. Grymes, John 
Grymes, of whom I had entertained other hopes, is, as I take it fer 
granted you know, actually engaged against you.- 



OPPOSED TO THE AMERICAN WAR. 317 

'• The Americans have one reason to feel less resentment at 
Howe's army, which is, that I am persuaded the greatest part of 
them would act with precisely the same alacrity, against any part of 
the people here, as against those in America ; I have heard many 
declare it in so many words. If it should be possible, it would 
give me infinite satisfaction, to know that you have received 
this, and in what situation you are, for I can hear nothing. I must 
leave off now immediately, believe me, my dear friend ;, with every 
wish for your success. Your's.'^ 



" Dunkirk, March 12M, 1778. 
" My Dear Trapier, 

^' An opportunity has offered of writing to you, which I could 
hardly have looked for. I must write in a hurry, but that shall not 
prevent my writing. A few words may express what is essential, as 
well as a great many. You are to know, that since the commence- 
ment of this fatal war, I have written to you numerous letters, the 
purport of all of which has been, to tell you what I hope you will 
hear with pleasure, that I am a firm and zealous friend to the cause of 
America in the fullest extent. I reprobate from the beginning the 
conduct of Great Britain. I feel, with the fullest conviction, tlie 
madness and wickedness of our Councils ; and I exult in the resistance 
which America has made, and the success with which it has been 
crowned. The weakness of Great Britain, and not the justice or 
generosity will now, I hope, put a period to the progress of calamity . 
Though I have no expectations from the propositions now made in a 
manner the most disgraceful to the country, yet I flatter myself we 
shall not have much more war. I have looked upon the affair for 
some time as decided, and decided in favour of justice, liberty, and 
the general happiness of mankind. It terminates, indeed most com- 
pletely, to the dishonour of England ; but, if England will depart 
from all those generous principles which have hitherto enobled it, 
and become the invader, instead of the supporter of the liberties of 
the world, I shall be the first to say, let her meet with disgrace. I 
could wish very much to see the two countries united in some shape 
or other, so as to feel again a common interest and glory. The point 
of Independence is not a matter with me of any consequence. If 
Independence is necessary to the welfare or safety of America, let a 
treaty be instantly formed on that ground 5 but, if Liberty can be as 
well secured without that, and that the count ries considered as one, 



$IS PATRIOTS OF GREAT BRITAIN, &c. 

will be likely to settle into a closer union, I would wish it were given 
up. Nor can I see, that the condition of America, considered not as 
an appendant to this country, but as a partner in a common empire, 
will be less respectable, then as a collection of independant States. 
This is the sum of my sentiments, which it would be an infinite relief 
to me to know, that you were acquainted with. It has been, for these 
three years, a most painful reflection to me to think, that you might 
possibly be under the impression of my entertaining sentiments 
which I hold in utter abhorrence. 

" I write this letter to you from a place where you will be sur- 
prised to hear of me — Dunkirk — whither I have come for a day by 
accident, having come over for ten days to St. Omer's, to see a friend, 
wiio has been obliged lately to reside there. An American Captain 
of a privateer is here, who lately escaped from England, of the name 
of Johnson, and to him I have intrusted this letter, inclosed in one to 
Arthur Lee, whom I knew at Paris. I think in the summer, I 
shall with some other persons of the same sentiments as myself, 
make a trip to Paris to see him and Deane, &c. I think by his 
means we may effect tljfe correspondence, which I am happy to find 
you express a strong wish for, in the letter I received from you at the 
end of last summer. I know enough of him to desire in my letter, 
that he would take charge of such letters. Write to me, therefore, 
my invaluable friend, and don't have any apprehension, that any 
pohtical sentiments that you can express, will not accord with my 
own. You have given, in th§ forbearance of all political subjects in 
your former letter, the strongest instance of your friendship ; but you 
will not, for the future, be under the necessity of giving that proof^ 
Let me beg to offer my best respects to Mrs. Trapier, though I have 
not yet the pleasure of knowing her. Believe me, ever, 

W. W." 



NOTICE OF BOTTA'S HISTORY OF THE 
REVOLUTION. 



It is altogether incomprehensible to me, on what 
grounds a modern historian, (Botta) should have ad- 
vanced an opinion, that the French nation, wearied out 
by disastrous warfare, and compelled to accept the 
conditions of the Peace of Paris, concluded in 1763, 
had resorted to the means of address to excite the 
resentments of the Colonists against the Parent State, 
and that the Independence of the United States re- 
sulted, in a sreat measure, from the success of their 
intrigues. Emissaries, he boldly asserts, traversed the 
American continent, saying to all who would hear 
them : 

" To what end have the Americans lavished their 
blood, encountered so many dangers, and expended so 
much treasure in the late war, if the English supre- 
macy must continue to press upon them, with so much 
harshness and arrogance ? In recompense of such 
fidelity, of so much constancy, the English Govern- 
ment, perhaps, have moderated its prohibitions, have 
enfranchised commerce from trammels so prejudicial 
to the interests of America ? Perhaps the odious, and 
so much lamented laws against manufactures, have 
been repealed ? Perhaps the Americans no longer 
toil upon their lands, or traverse the immensity of the 
seas, exclusively to fill the purses of English Mer- 
chants ? Perhaps the Government of England have 
shown a disposition to abandon for ever, the project of 



320 NOTICE OF BOTTA'S HISTORY 

parliamentary taxes ? Is it not, on the contrary, evi- 
dent, that with its forces and power, have increased its 
thirst of gold and the tyranny of its caprices ? Was 
not this admitted by Pitt himself, when he declared, 
the war being terminated, he should be at no loss to 
find the means of drawing a public revenue from Ame- 
rica, and of putting an end once for all to American 
resistance ? Has not England, at present, being mis- 
tress of Canada, a province recently French, and as 
such more patient of the yoke, has she not the means 
of imposing it on her colonists themselves, by the 
hands of her numerous soldiery ? Is it not time that 
the Americans no longer, in the state of infancy, 
should, at length, consider themselves a nation strong 
and formidable in itself ? Is it only for the utility of 
England, they have demonstrated in the late war what 
they are capable of achieving ? And by what right 
should a distant Island pretend to govern by its ca- 
prices, an immense and populous Continent ? How 
long must the partialities and the avarice of England 
be tolerated ? Did ever men, arms, riches, courage, 
climate invite to a more glorious enterprise ? Let the 
Americans then seize the occasion, with a mind wor- 
thy of themselves, now they have proved their arms, 
now that an enormous public debt overwhelms Eng- 
land, now that her name has become detestable to all ! 
America can place her confidence in foreign succours. 
What could be objected to a resolution so generous ? 
Consanguinity ? But have not the English hitherto 
treated the Colonists more as vassals, than as brothers ? 
Gratitude ? But, iiave not the English strangled it, 
under the pretensions of that mercantile and avaricious 
spirit which animates them ?" 

There surely never was a more gross tissue of ab- 
surdity and falsehood published. Hear the opinion 
of the veteran De Kalb. He frequently mentioned, 
that Ue had traversed the British Colonies at the insti- 



OF THE REVOLUTION. 321 

gatlon of the French Court, in a concealed character, 
doubtless to sow the seeds of discontent, if he had 
found the minds of the people prepared to receive 
them; but, this was far from being the case ; for, when 
speaking of the war of the Revolution, he never 
failed to express his astonishment, how any govern- 
ment could have so blundered, as to have effaced the 
ardent and deep rooted affection, which to his know- 
ledge existed, on the part of the Colonies to Great 
Britain, previous to the existing rupture. A prefer- 
ence, he observed, equalled only by their antipathy to 
the French Nation, which was so powerful as to in- 
duce him to consider it, as he called it — instinctive. 
It cannot be possible, that opinion should waver be- 
twixt the accurate discernment of the one, and the 
chimerical dreams of the other. The statement of 
De Kalb, accounts for the total neglect of every pre- 
paration for war at the commencement of hostilities. 
They loved and had confidence in the affection of the 
Parent State ; nor believed it possible, that their rights 
would be so trampled upon, as to render an appeal to 
arms a necessary result from the dispute existing be- 
tween them. If, as Botta asserts, intrigue had been 
used with success to instigate revolt, the Americans 
must have been more than mad, not to have prepared 
the means to have met their adversaries on a footing of 
equality, and to have repelled force by force. But, it 
would be farcical to contend against an opinion, which 
the conviction of every man, acquainted with the 
events of the times, would declare, not only visionary, 
but decidedly false. One truth comes home to the 
recollection of every man, who lived in those days. 
The attachment to England was such, that to what- 
ever the Colonists wished to affix the stamp of excel- 
lence, the title of English was always given. The 
best of its kind, whether in the vegetable or animal 
kingdom, was always English, Nay, to such a length 

41 



322 NOTICE OF BOTTA'S HISTORY 

was the prejudice carried, that attachment to the soil 
of their nativity was weakened by acknowledging the 
superior claim of England to their warmest affections* 
To reside in England was the object of universal 
desire, the cherished hope of every bosom ; it stimulated 
to industry, it was the goal at which every individual 
in pussuit of fortune wished to arrive. It was con- 
sidered as the delightful haven, where peace and hap- 
piness were alone to be looked for. A parent send- 
ing his sons to Eaton or Westminster, would say, " I 
am sending my sons home for their education." If he 
himself should, at an after period, cross the Atlantic, 
though but for a summer season, to witness their pro- 
gress, he would say, " I am going home to visit my chil- 
dren, and so forth." Such language would ill accord 
with the sentiments of men engendering, according to 
Botta, resentment, and opinions hostile to Britain. 
Persuaded, then, that the Colonists bore the sincerest 
jittachment to the Parent State, and that from the reci- 
procity of affection, they looked for a speedy and per- 
manent reconciliation with it, I can correctly state, 
that in Carolina nothing was less thought of or desired, 
than Independence ; and moreover, that it was so little 
contemplated, that there was not in the possession of 
the Whig inhabitants throughout the State, a sufficiency 
of arms to supply a single Battalion. These observa- 
tions relative to the work of Botta, lead me to mention 
an occurrence very highly creditable to the parties con- 
cerned in its ascomplishment. 

The determination to oppose the unjust encroach- 
ments of Britain upon the liberties of the nation, once 
resolved on, it became an object of the first conse^ 
quence to obtain the means of effectual resistance. 
The King's Arsenal was kept in the attic story of the 
State-House, and contained, as it would appear by the 
proclamation of the Lieutenant Governor Bull, offering 
a reward for the apprehension of the individuals who 



OF THE REVOLUTION. 323 

plundered it, about 800 stand of arms, besides 200 
cutlasses, and other military stores. The possession of 
these essential implements of war, necessarily appear- 
ed in the eyes of the Committee of Safety of the utmost 
consequence. Secret meetings were accordingly held 
to digest a plan for the purpose, which was speedily 
adopted, and executed with the happiest success. The 
regulation of the entire business was entrusted to 
Messrs. Daniel Cannon, William Johnson, Anthony 
Toomer, Edward Weyman, and Daniel Stevens, and 
so admirably arranged and conducted throughout, that 
the whole of the arms were carried off, and safely de- 
posited for the future use of the citizens, before the 
Governor, or Armourer, had the slightest suspicion of 
the event. The alarm excited by this bold measure, 
at once opened the eyes of the Royal Officers to the 
peril of their situation. It decidedly accelerated the 
flight of the Governor Lord William Campbell. He 
could not mistake the motives of the seizure, nor 
believe that respect would be shown to his person, 
where so little regard was paid to his authority. He 
accordingly went on board the Cherokee ; and on the 
arrival of Sir Peter Parker, volunteered his services, 
fought gallantly, received a severe wound, and died 
of its consequences. 



INSTANCES 

OP THI? 

BENIGN INTERPOSITION OF PROVIDENCE IN 
AMERICAN AFFAIRS. 



/ Without the affectation of habitually indulging in 
f serious meditation, or contemplating with reverential 
awe the beneficence of the Deity — without presuming 
to boast a pious gratitude, to which I can have, when 
compared with men of more serious temper, but slight 
pretension, I conscientiously declare, that in no con- 
test that I ever heard, or read of, has the favour and 
protection of the Almighty, appeared to incline with 
such preference, and been manifested in such multi- 
plied occurrences, as in the war which separated the 
United States from the dominion of Great Britain. 
In thus expressing myself, I trust 1 shall not be con- 
sidered as apologizing for sentiments that I delight to 
cherish. The man, whose exalted worth not only 
does honour to his country, but to ihe human race, the 
immortal Washington, in the height of success, in the 
achievement of his most brilliant victories, never failed 
to express his perfect belief in the interposition of Pro- 
vidence. In his Public Despatches, his Private Cor- 
respondence, his General Orders, he spoke not of his 
own prowess, but of the goodness of God, the giver 
of Victory, who taught him to overcome difficulties 



INTERPOSITION OF PROVIDENCE, &c. 325 

that would, without his aid, have proved insurmout- 
able ; nor would ever assume to himself, honours that 
he regarded as due to the Almighty alone. 

I presume not to depend upon my own inferior and 
contracted ability, to support my opinions ; but rest 
them on the surer basis of incontrovertible facts — on 
events that cannot be denied, and if acknowledged, 
decisively conclusive. 

There is no man so impious, as to deny the Provi- 
dence of God over the works of his creation ; and 
where his power to rule is acknowledged, it cannot 
excite surprise, that his mercy and goodness should 
shield the oppressed from wrong, and cause the evils 
denounced against an injured and insulted people, to 
recoil on their enemies, and overwhelm them with dis- 
appointment and disgrace. I will select a few from 
the many instances that strike forcibly on my recol- 
lection. 

During the period that Boston was closely invested 
by the American forces, the news of the restrictions 
imposed on commerce, and of the resolution of the 
Parliament of Britain to employ Foreign Mercenaries 
to bring them under subjection, having reached the 
Colonists, Congress, to profit by the irritation univer- 
sally excited among the people, strenuously urged 
General Washington (then lately invested with the 
chief command) to brave all dangers, and to endeavour, 
by ev-ery possible exertion, to effect the expulsion of the 
enemy. It was at once perceived, by the discerning 
eye of the General, that to possess the heights of Dor- 
chester, was to secure the decided command of the 
city. Accordingly a large detachment of the army 
proceeded in profound silence, on the night of the 4th 
of March, 1775, and gaining possession of them before 
their movement was perceived, commenced, with in- 
defatigable exertion, to throw up entrenchments. 
Their labour, however, was not without interruption; 



526 INTERPOSITION OF PROVIDENCE 

the noise of the workmen was distinctly heard, and a 
heavy fire kept up by the shipping; but as they aimed 
at random, without a correct knowledge of the posi- 
tion of their enemy, with little effect. The morning's 
dawn showed to the besieged the danger of their situa- 
tion, should thf> works be completed, and it was neces- 
sary either to dislodge the Americans, or evacuate the 
city. General Howe decided for the attack. The 
day was mild and serene, not a cloud obscured the 
heavens. His troops were assembled, and distinctly 
perceived preparing to enter the boats which were to 
transport them to the Dorchester peninsula, when the 
tide ebbing, and wind rising suddenly, so as to blow 
with extreme violence, the passage was rendered im- 
practicable. Delay became necessary, and proved fatal 
to the hopes and designs of the British General, for a 
tempest followed the gale, and a heavy and incessant 
fall of rain for three days, increasing the difficulties of 
enterprise, he saw that the American General had 
given such perfection to his works, as to render them 
unassailable, with the slightest prospect of success. 
Compelled to renounce the attempt, he immediately 
abandoned the cit}^ 

After the disastrous battle on Long-Island, and the 
retreat of the American forces within their lines at 
Brooklyn, there can be but little doubt, but that these 
might have been carried by assault, had the British 
General profited by the ardour of his troops, elate with 
victory, and eager to reap new honours, to lead them 
to the attack. But, happily for America, he adopted 
the more prudent plan of seeking superiority by regular 
approaches, and of waiting the co-operation of the 
fleet. The situation of the Americans in their camp, 
was- critical in the extreme. A superior enemy in 
their front, their defences trivial and incomplete, their 
troops fatigued and discouraged, and the English fleet 
ready (though previously prevented by a North-East 



IN AMERICAN AFFAIRS. 327 

wind) to enter the river, which would preclude the 
possibility of retreat, and leave them no alternative 
but to surrender. General Washington viewed the 
impending catastrophe, and at once determined to 
evacuate the position and withdraw to New-York. 
The passage was, in the first instance, prevented by a 
violent wind from the North-East, and the ebbing 
tide, which ran with too great violence to be encoun- 
tered, when fortunately it veered to the North-West, 
which rendered the passage perfectly secure. But, in 
a still more miraculous manner the interposition of 
Providence became manifest. A thick fog involved 
the whole of Long-Island in obscurity, covering the 
retreat of the American forces, while the air was per- 
fectly clear on the side of New-York, and nine thou- 
sand men, the artillery, baggage, camp equipage, and 
munitions of war, were brought off, without loss. 
The rising sun dispersing the fog, the British saw with 
astonishment, that the Americans had abandoned their 
position, and were already beyond the reach of pursuit.* 
On the Ilth of October, 1777, General Gates hav- 
ing received information, which he believed correct, 
that the main body of Burgoyne's army had marched 
off for Fort Edward, and that the rear g,uard only was 
left in camp, determined to advance with his entire 
force, and in half an hour to attack them. At the 
period the whole country was covered with a thick 

* A Clerical friend to whom I related this interesting fact, made the follow- 
ing reply : " The interposition of Providence in the affairs of nations, has been 
too often witnessed to be called in question. What you have now stated, will 
bring forcibly to the mind of every religious reader, the wonderful display of 
God's Providence to the Israelites in the passage of the Red Sea. ' The pillar 
of the cloud went from before their face, and stood behind them : And it came 
between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel ; and it was a cloud 
and darkness to them, but it gave light by night to these.' But for the interpo- 
sition of this cloud of dai'kuess to the Egyptians, tliey would have overwhelmed 
the Israelites upon the sea-shore. And but for the Providential intervention of 
Xhefog upon Long-Island, which was a cioud resting on the eartli. the American 
army would have been destroyed, and the hopes of every patriot bosom extio- 
guished, perhaps for ever." 



328 INTERPOSITION OF PROVIDENCE 

fog. General Nixon's Brigade crossed the Fishkill 
Creek in advance. General Glover was on the point 
of following him, when he perceived near his column 
a British soldier, making across the stream with pre- 
cipitation. Concluding that he was a deserter, from 
whom interesting information might be obtained, he 
immediately ordered him to be brought forward for 
examination. Inquiring into particulars relative to 
the state and position of the British army, the soldier 
replied, " You will find them encamped as they have 
been for severaL days past." "But, have not large 
detachments been sent off to Fort Edward," said the 
General. *' No," replied the deserter ; " a small de- 
tachment left our camp a day or two ago, with the 
hope of reaching that post, but finding the passes on 
their route occupied by the Americans, returned ; and 
the whole afmy are now in camp." Glover promptly 
sent advice of this important communication to Nixon, 
urging his retreat ; and mounting the soldier behind an 
Aid-de-Canip. sent him to General Gates, who, hav- 
ing examined him, hurried away the Aid-de-Camp, the 
Adjutant-General, and others, to countermand his 
former orders, and prevent the attack. General Nixon, 
on receiving the message of Glover, immediately or- 
dered a retreat ; but, before he could recross the 
creek, the fog breaking away, the enemy's cannon 
opened on his rear, and killed many of his men. It 
was a critical moment, in which the probable fate of 
the army was at stake. A quarter of an hour longer, 
might have caused the ruin of the entire brigade, and 
given a turn to affairs that might have restored the 
fallen fortunes of the British army, and afforded them, 
if not the ability of progressing in their route to Al- 
bany, a safe retreat into Canada. 

General Burgoyne, in speaking in his narrative of 
the expedition under his command, of this event, says, 
*' The disposition of the enemy being to pass the 



IN AMERICAN AFFAIRS. 329 

Fishkill in different columns, and to make their great 
effort on the plain, they must have formed under the 
fire of ail our park of artillery and musketry of the 
entrenched corps on the hill, and the musketry of the 
20th Regiment, which was at easy distance, to be sup- 
ported by the Germans in front. Add to this would 
have been^ the advantage which, though always wished 
for, never attained, of a charge upon an open plain. 
I cannot, therefore, strfficiently lament the accident 
which prevented the enemy's design, (which so far ad- 
vanced, as actually to have passed the river with a 
column) as one of the most adverse strokes of fortune 
during the campaign." 

After the victory of the Cowpens, heroically gained, 
in contradiction of all calculation of probable results, 
General Morgan took immediate measures for retreat, 
and crossing the Broad River on the evening of the 
day of battle, strove by forced marches to gain the 
Catawba. Lord Cornwallis lost not a moment in 
pursuit. He knew the importance of striking the 
victor before he could gain the point at which he aim- 
ed, and so eagerly and perseveringly followed, that 
Morgan had scarcely crossed the river into North Ca- 
rolina, when the British army appeared on the opposite 
])ank. This event happened on the 29th of Januar}^ 
1781. A very heavy fall of rain during the night, ren- 
dered the Catawba unfordable. For two days the 
swell of the river continued. In the interim Morgan, 
availing himself of so fortunate an occurrence, sent off 
his prisoners, (in number nearly equal to his effective 
force) with the arms and stores which he had taken, 
and happily placed them in security. What must have 
been the result but for this Providential rain ? Inevita- 
ble defeat, and ruin to Morgan and his corps; and 
such a decided superiority gained over the portion of 
the army under the immediate command of General 
Greene, that safety could only have been obtained by 

42 



S30 INTERPOSITION OF PROVIDENCE; 

retreat into Virginia; and the. Carolinas and Georgia 
must necessarily have remained (at least for a much 
longer period) in the possession of the enemy. 

At the Yadkin, as at the Catawba, the same propi* 
tious fortune crowned the efforts of Morgan ; he passed 
at the ford, and in flats, without loss. The British 
appeared in sight as the rear of his force was landed, 
but a powerful fall of rain causing a sudden swell of 
the river, the cherished hopes of the British of annihi- 
lating his command, were again frustrated, and pursuit 
was abandoned. One hope still remained to Corn- 
wallis, and that was, by rapid movement to prevent 
the retreat of Greene into Virginia; and it must for 
ever redound to his credit, that no Commander ever 
made greater sacrifices, or subjected himself and his 
troops to severer privations, than he did to accomplish 
his object. His wagons, baggage, and every superfluous 
article that could impede celerity of movement, were 
sacrificed, and the ardour of pursuit maintained with a 
perseverance almost incredible. But against the fore- 
sight of Greene his efforts could little avail. He did, 
indeed, overtake, and harass the retiring American 
army ; but the rear was so well protected by the genius 
of Otho Williams, commanding a selected corps of 
cavalry and infantry, that the Dan was passed without 
any material interruption, and the army placed in per- 
fect security. 

At the siege of York-Town in Virginia, Lord Corn- 
wallis perceiving no possible chance of resisting, suc- 
cessfully, the combined forces of America and France, 
his advanced redoubts already captured — the greater 
part of his artillery dismounted — his lines of defence 
crumbled into his ditches — resolved to attempt the ac- 
complishment of an escape by crossing the river to the 
opposite bank ; or at all events of protracting surrender, 
and obtaining more favourable terms for the garrison. 
Already a part of the troops had reached Gloucester 



IN AMERICAN AFFAIRS. 331 

point — a second division was embarked, when, in the 
critical moment of excited hope, when every thing 
appeared to favour his design, a storm of wind and 
rain arose, which at once disconcerted all his mea- 
sures. The boats were driven down the river, and the 
army, weakened and divided, left in extreme peril. 
To increase misfortune, with the return of day, a most 
tremendous and destructive fire was opened by the 
besiegers. The tempest, however, abated, and the 
boats returning, brought back the division of the army 
that had crossed to Gloucester, 'and Cornwallis, so 
long triumphant, was compelled to submit. 

I will bring forward one other instance. At the 
most distressful period of the war, General Washing- 
ton wrote to Congress, " That he was surrounded by 
secret foes, destitute of the means of detecting them, 
or of getting intelligence of the enemy's movements 
and designs. The army was in rags, had few or no 
blankets, and military stores were in the dregs. The 
troops reduced in numbers, must retreat, without the 
means of defence if attacked, and would probably 
disperse from the want of subsistence and clothing in 
an inclement season, too severe for nature to support. 
In a word, we have lived upon expedients till we can 
live no longer ; and it may truly be said, that the 
history of this war, is a history of false hopes and tem- 
porary devices, instead of system and oeconomy, which 
results from it." All business was, in consequence, 
suspended in Congress, and dismay was universal, 
since no supplies of the requisitions demanded could 
be provided. 

Mr. Robert Morris, to whom the United States 
is more indebted for their prosperity and happiness, 
than to any other individual, with the exception 
of General Washington, overcome by his feelings, 
quitted the Hall with a mind completely depressed, 
without a present hope, or cheering expectation of 



532 INTERPOSITIOxN OF PROVIDENCE 

future prosperity. On entering his Counting- House, 
he received the welcome intelligence, that a ship which 
he had despaired of, had, at that moment, arrived at 
the wharf, with a full cargo of all the munitions of 
war, and of soldiers' clothing. He returned to Con- 
gress almost breathless with joy, and announced the 
exhilarating good news. Nor did propitious fortune 
end here. Accidentally meeting with a worthy Qua- 
ker, who had wealth at command, and a hearty well- 
wisher to the American cause, although from his re- 
ligious principles averse to war and fighting, he thought 
it no departure from the strict line of propriety, to 
endeavour, by every exertion, to awaken his sympathy 
and obtain his assistance. Assuming, therefore, an 
expression of countenance indicative of the most poig- 
nant anguish and deep despair, he was passing him in 
silence, when the benevolent Quaker, w^ho had criti- 
cally observed him, and marked the agitation of his 
mind, feelingly said, " Robert, I fear there is bad 
news." The reply was, '* Yes, very bad ; I am under 
the most helpless embarrassment for the want of some 
hard money." *' How much would relieve thy diffi- 
culties, Robert ?" The sum was mentioned. '* But 
1 could only give my private engagement in a note, 
which I would sacredly pledge my honour to repay," 
rejoined Mr. Morris. " Cease thy sorrows, then, Ro- 
bert ; thou shalt have the money in confidence of thy 
silence on the subject, as it regards me." The specie 
was procured, immediately remitted to General Wash- 
ington, and saved the army. 

I should find no difficulty in producing many other, 
and equally satisfactory proofs of the opinion advanced, 
but shall content myself with asking — Is it possible, 
that so many occurrences should be considered as 
casualties depending altogetiier on chance ? Do they 
not rather appear as the orderings of the beneficent 
Ruler of the Universe, extending his protecting arm 



IN AMERICAN AFFAIRS. 333 

over a people whom he cherished, and checking the 
wild and inordinate ambition of the oppressor ? It is 
the light in which it ought to be viewed, that the gra- 
titude of the nation should be proportioned to the 
blessings bestowed on it, and that the pride of success 
restrained within just limits, nor overstepping the 
bounds of moderation, the victors in the contest may, 
with humility, exclaim, " Not unto us, but unto the 
powerful protection of an all wise and beneficent God, 
are such providential escapes and unexampled suc- 
cesses to be attributed." 



ROBERT MORRIS. 

Having but slightly mentioned this distinguished 
patriot, both justice and gratitude require that I should 
speak more particularly of his extraordinary powers iri 
the department of Finance ; the extent of his influence 
in the commercial relations of the nation, both at home 
and abroad, and successful exertions in the acccmplish- 
nient of its independence ; more especially, as it is ac- 
knowledged, that to the zeal and ability of Washington 
alone, were superior honours due. My information in 
all that relates to this distinguished citizen, is derived, 
in a great measure, from one of the most enlightened 
and active patriots of our Revolution, Judge Peters ; 
but better authority could not be adduced, since, placed 
for many years at the head of the Board of War, he 
possessed the most perfect knowledge of every military 
transaction, and of the influence of Mr. Morris, in 
giving eflicacy to enterprise. Independent of which, 
that from personal friendship and constant co-opera- 
tion, in labouring for the nation's glory, there appeared 



334 MORRIS. 

but one object and one mind betwixt them. The 
Anecdote which follows is from his pen; it would be 
an injustice on my part to attempt the alteration of a 
single sentence, a single word. 

"In 1779, or 1780, two of the most distressing 
years of the war, General Washington wrote to me 
a most alarming account of the prostrate condition 
of the military stores, and enjoining my immediate 
exertions to supply deficiencies. There were no 
musket cartridges but those in the men's boxes, 
and they w^ere wet: of course, if attacked, a retreat 
or a rout was inevitable. We (the Board of War) 
had exhausted all the lead accessible to us, having 
caused even the spouts of houses to be melted, and 
had offered, abortively, the equivalent in paper of two 
shillings specie per pound for lead. I went in the 
evening of the day in which I received this letter, to a 
splendid entertainment given by Don Mirailles, the 
Spanish Minister. My heart was sad, but I had the fa- 
culty of brightening my countenance even under gloomy 
disasters, yet it seems then not sufficiently adroitly. 
Mr. Morris, who was one of the guests, and knew me 
^well, discovered some casual traits of depression. He 
accosted me in his usual blunt and disengaged manner. 
' I see some clouds passing across the sunny counte- 
nance you assume — what is the matter?' After some 
hesitation I showed him the General's letter, which I 
had brought from the office with the intention of 
placing it at home in a private cabinet. He played 
with my anxiety, which he did not relieve for some 
time. At length, however, with great and sincere de- 
light, he called me aside, and told me that the Holker 
privateer had just arrived at his wharf with ninety tons 
of lead, which she had brought as ballast. It had been 
landed at Martinique, and stone ballast had supplied its 
place, but this had been put on shore and the lead 
again taken in. * You shall have my half of this for- 



MORRIS. 335 

tunate supply; there are the owners of the other half, '^ 
(indicating gentlemen in the apartment.) * Yes, but I 
am already under heavy personal engagements, as 
guarantee for the Department, to those and other gen- 
tlemen.' ' Well,' rejoined Mr. Morris, ' they will take 
your assumption with my guaranty.' I instantly, on 
these terms, secured the lead, left the entertainment, 
sent for the proper officers, and set more than one hun- 
dred people to work through the night. Before morn- 
ing a supply of cartridges was ready, and sent oiF to 
the army. 

" I could relate many more such occurrences. Thus^ 
did our affairs succeed. * Per varios casus, per tot dis- 
crimina rerum.^ And these discrimina rerum occurred 
so often, that we had frequently occasion feelingly to 
exclaim, 

* Quod optanti divum promiKere nemo, 

* Anserat — Forsenf attulit ullro.' — VirCfIL." 

But at once to give the stamp of excellence to his 
zeal and decided influence in the most momentous 
concerns of the nation, I will, from the same authority, 
show in how great a measure his activity decided the 
fate of Cornwallis. 

" It may not be generally known, but it is an incon- 
trovertible fact, that the plan of the campaign for the 
year 1781, as agreed upon by General Washington 
and Admiral De Grasse, was to aim at the reduction 
of New- York, and that the Southern enterprise was 
never contemplated until, unexpectedly, and to his 
extreme surprise. General Washington (by the French 
Admiral's breaking his engagements to come into New- 
York Bay, and announcing his intention, through the 
Admiral commanding the squadron at Rhode-Island, 
to enter and remain, for a few weeks, in the Chesa- 
peake) was obliged to change the whole plan of opera- 
tions ; which, from the powerfiil resources of his mind, 



336 MORRIS. 

he planned and performed in a sudden and masterly 
manner. An account has been published, by which it 
appears that the Count Rochambeau claimed the credit 
of planning the enterprise a year before it was put in 
execution. A military character who had rendered 
such important services to our country as were, by 
universal consent, attributed to him, needed no bor- 
rowed plume. He avows his having advised Count De 
Grasse not to venture into New-York Bay. He should, 
(had he acted consistently with his duty) with candour, 
and in due season, have made this communication to 
General Washington; whereas, the first intimation of 
a change of the original plan, was the French Admi- 
ral's letter from Rhode- Island, which the General put 
into my hands a few hours after he had received it, 
with strong expressions of surprise and resentment. 
Assuredly, at this period, the expedition to the South- 
ward had never been thought of; but as Count Rocham- 
beau's countervailing advice had been attended with 
successful consequences, he adroitly takes advantage of 
this good fortune and turns, an otherwise unjustifiable 
interference, into personal merit. I was sent by Con- 
gress, under the belief that New- York was the object, to 
consult with General Washington, on the supplies ne- 
cessary for the attack. But, the apprehension ex- 
pressed by Count de Grasse, of danger to his heavy 
ships, should they enter the Bay, and the avowal of 
his intention to sail for the Chesapeake, put at once 
an end to deliberation on the subject. A new object 
was now to be sought for, on which the co-operation 
of the allies might be employed with effect. I was 
present when the Southern enterprise was resolved on, 
(claiming no merit or agency in the military part of it) 
and superintended the provision of every thing required 
by the General, for the operation. From seventy to 
eighty pieces of battering cannon, and one hundred of 
field artillery, were completely fitted and furnished 



MORRIS. 337 

with attirail and ammunition, although, when I re- 
turned from camp to Philadelphia, there was not a 
field carriage put together, and but a small quantity of 
fixed ammunition in our Magazines. The train was 
progressively sent on in three or four weeks, to the 
great honour of the officers and men employed in this 
meritorious service. All this, together with the expense 
of provision for, and pay of the troops, was accom- 
jjlished on the personal credit of Mr. Robert Morris, 
who issued his notes to the amount of one million four 
hundred thousan^idollars, which ivere finally all paid. 
Assistance was furnished by Virginia and other States, 
from the merit whereof I mean not to detract. But, 
as there v/as no money in the chest of the War Office, 
and the Treasury of the United States empty, the ex- 
pedition never could have been operative and brought 
to a successful issue, had not, most fortunately, Mr. 
Morris' credit, superior exertions, and management, 
supplied the indispensable si7ie qua non, the funds 
necessary to give effect to exertion." 

Such important services rendered to his country, 
while they entitled Mr. Morris to the admiration, 
should, at the same time, have secured him some dis- 
tinguished testimony of public gratitude. He richly 
merited, and ought to have enjoyed in old age, the un- 
interrupted blessings of peace and happiness. But, at 
the conclusion of the war, the propitious fortunes that 
seemed attendant on all his prior enterprises, forsook 
him. He engaged in deep speculation, to the entire 
ruin of his pecuniary concerns. He had husbanded, 
and with success, the funds of the public, but dissi- 
pated his own. Penury and wretchedness closed the 
scene of life. The memory of a man of such dis- 
tinguished utility cannot be lost; and while the recol- 
lection of his multiplied services are deeply engraven 
on the tablet of every patriotic heart, I fondly hope, 
that the day is not distant, when some public monu- 

V3 



338 MORRIS. 

ment, recording the most momentous occurrences of 
his life, and characteristic of national feeling and gra- 
titude, may mark the spot where rest the remains of 
Robert Morris, 



To the instances given by Judge Peters, of the 
happy arrival of supplies for the army, at the moment 
that they were most needed, I would add another oc- 
currence derived from the same authority. " On our 
entering Philadelphia, in June 1778^ after the evacu- 
ation by the British troops, we were hard pressed for 
ammunition. We caused the whole city to be ran- 
sacked in search of cartridge paper. At length, I 
thought of the garrets, &c. of old Printing Offices. In 
that once occupied as a lumber room by Dr. Franklin, 
when a printer, a vast collection was discovered. — 
Among the mass was more than a cart body load of 
Sermons on Defensive War, preached by a famous 
Gilbert Tenant, during an old British and French war, 
to rouse the Colonists to indispensable exertion. 
These appropriate manifestoes were instantly em- 
ployed as cases for musket cartridges, rapidly sent to 
the army, came most opportunely, and were fired away 
at the battle of Monmouth against our retiring foe. 



TIMOTHY PICKERING. 

Where the shafts of malevolence have been directed 
against a patriot who never harboured a thought, nor 
cherished a principle inconsistent with the honour and 
interests of his country, though they fail to injure, they 
do not the less offend. It is most grateful, therefore, 



PICKERING. 339 

to me to speak of the services of a patriot, who, though 
not always a successful candidate for public favour, 
never ceased to deserve it. Thoroughly approving the 
opinions of Judge Peters, I will give them in his own 
words. Speaking of Colonel Pickering, he says, — " He 
is too well known to need any eulogium from me. He 
was one of the first Commissioners of the Board of 
War ; and a most diligent and able co-adjutor we had in 
him, during eighteen months, when he was called to 
the field, first as Adjutant, then as Quarter-Master 
General. I have known him intimately forty-five 
years. A man of more firmness and sterling integrity 
never lived. Yet he has been persecuted with shame- 
less obloquy. His present situation gives a practical 
rebutter to some gross aspersions. He does not claim 
a title to the brilliant fame of Cincinnatus, but he emu-* 
lates his virtues in retirement; and now, in the seven- 
ty-seventh year of his life, personally labours on a farm 
of very moderate extent, in his native State, where his 
merits are best known and justly appreciated. This 
moderate establishment he was enabled to purchase by 
the grateful and generous assistance of an association 
of liberal fellow-citizens, who bought his investment 
of title to his military certificates in forest lands in 
Pennsylvania, with a view of serving him, and not 
themselves. And, to their immortal honour, those 
lands have been transferred, gratuitously, to the widow 
and orphans of the late eminently distinguished and 
poignantly lamented General Hamilton, another of our 
Revolutionary patriots, who reaped but a pittance of 
the fruits, though he led the way in sowing and ma- 
turing the harvest." 



MQ STEUBEN> 



BARON STEUBEN. 

It is with peculiar delight that I bring into view the 
services of this exceHent soldier and inestimable man, 
conscientiously believing, that after the Generals Wash- 
ington and Greene, and the Financier, Robert Morris, 
there was no individual in the United States, who, in 
equal degree, contributed to the victories of our armies, 
and the establishment of our Independence. 

It was my good fortune, shortly after the conclusion 
of the war, to be presented to Baron Steuben, an 
officer who had served in the armies of the United 
States with the highest distinction. To give a just 
idea of his merit, it is necessary to state his previous 
situation in Europe, and the sacrifices which attended 
his devotion to the cause of Liberty. Most of the 
foreigners who had engaged in the service of America, 
were men of desperate fortunes, ambitious to acquire 
honour and emolument. They had possessed but in- 
ferior grade in the armies in which they had served, 
yet, to a people totally unacquainted with the art of 
war, their knowledge was of importance, and on all 
occasions rewarded with flattering promotion. It was 
far otherwise w ith Baron Steuben. At the commence- 
ment of our contest with Great Britain he was a Lieu- 
tenant General in the circle of the German Empire, 
called Swabia, and commanded in chief the forces 
of the Prince of Beven. He was also a Canon of the 
Church, and Aid-de-Camp to the King of Prussia, 
with a revenue from these offices amounting to nearly 
six hundred pounds sterling per annum. By entering 
into the service of the United States his rank as a sol- 
dier w^as dimished, and expectation of bettering his for- 
tunes for ever destroyed. The regulations of Congress 
(except in the case of the Commander in Chief) admit- 



STEUBEN. 341 

ted of no rank superior to that of Major General, and 
the poverty and distress of the country, destroyed every 
hope of pecuniary advantage. Yet, actuated by mo- 
tives superior to ambition and self-interest, offering his 
services even without pay, he, by unwearied industry, 
activity, and perseverance, called into service the army 
that gave liberty to America. A letter received from 
Judge Peters, of Philadelphia, to whose politeness 1 
am f)roud to acknowledge myself peculiarly indebted, 
supplying many of the most interesting Anecdotes of 
my collection, says, — " Your mentioning the name of 
Baron Steuben recalls to my memory a valued friend, 
whose merits have never been duly appreciated. Our 
army was but a meritorious irregular band before his 
creation of discipline. His Department and personal 
conduct were particularly under my observation. One 
fact, to prove his usefulness, will go further than a 
thousand words. In the estimates of the War Office, 
we always allowed five thousand muskets beyond the 
actual numbers of our muster of the whole army. It 
was, in early times, never sufficient to guard against 
the waste and misapplication that occurred. In the 
last inspection return of the Main Army, before I left 
the War Department, Baron Steuben being then In- 
spector General, only three muskets were deficient, and 
those accounted for." 

A friend, on the accuracy of whose statements I can 
confidently rely, told me that it could not easily be 
conceived to what severe trial the patience of the Baron 
was put in his first efforts to establish a regular system 
of discipline; and that, on one occasion, having ex- 
hausted all his German and French oaths, he vocife- 
rated to his Aid-de-Camp, Major Walker, *' Vten 
Walker — vien mon hon ami. Curse — God damn de 
gancherie of dese badants, je ne puis pins, I can curse 
^dem no more.'''' 



342 STEUBEN. 

In private life his virtues were exalted ; and it would 
be difficult to determine, whether he most excites our 
admiration for zeal and activity as a patriot and sol- 
dier, or tenderness and humanity as a man. As I hold 
his character in hig;h veneration, I have great delight in 
relating an Anecdote which I received from General 
Walter Stewart ; the truth of which may confidently 
be relied on. After the capture of York-Town, the 
superior officers of the allied army, vied with each 
other in acts of civility and attention to the captive 
Britons. Lord Cornwallis and his family were par- 
ticularly distinguished. Entertainments were given in 
succession by all the Major Generals, with the excep- 
tion of Baron Sl^uben. He alone withheld an invi- 
tation, not from a wish to be particular, nor that his 
heart was closed to the attentions due to misfortune ! 
His soul was superior to prejudice ; and, as a soldier, 
he tenderly sympathized in their fate, while poverty 
denied the means of displaying that liberality towards 
them, which had been shown by others. Such was 
his situation, when calling on Colonel Stewart, and 
informing him of his intention to entertain the British 
Commander in Chief, he requested, that he would 
advance him a sum of money as the price of his favour- 
ite charger. " 'Tis a good beast," said the Baron, 
** and has proved a faithful servant through all the dan- 
ger^ of the war ; but, though painful to my heart, we 
must part." Colonel Stewart, to prevent a step that 
he knew must be attended with great loss, and still 
greater inconvenience, immediately tendered his purse, 
recommending, should the sum it contained prove in- 
sufficient, the sale or pledge of his watch. " My dear 
friend," said the Baron, *' 'tis already sold. Poor N. 
was sick and wanted necessaries. He is a brave fel- 
low, and possesses the best of hearts. The trifle it 
brought is set apart for his use. My horse must go, 
so no more, I beseech you, to turn me from my pur- 



STEUBEN. 343 

pose. I am a Major General in the service of the 
United States, and my private convenience must not 
be put in the scale with the duty, which my rank calls 
upon me imperiously to perform." 

The liberal disposition of Baron Steuben, afforded to 
his Aid-de-Camp, Major North, an opportunity of 
making a peculiarly happy repartee. On the summit of 
a hill, on the farm occupied by the Baron, a monument 
was erected to the memory of a certain Mr. Provost, 
who, on account of his constant command of cash, had 
been styled, when living. Ready Money Provost, A 
gentleman observing, that in the event of death, the 
Baron would be at no loss for a snug place of inter- 
ment. Major North replied, "Then, Sir, his disposition 
must alter with his state, for in life he will never 
tolerate the idea of laying by ready money." 

Though poor himself, the Baron had a number of 
pensioners. Of one of these I must relate an inte- 
resting Anecdote. When Arnold apostatized and at- 
tached himself to the British Standard, Baron Steu- 
ben, at that period Inspector General of the army, to 
show his perfect abhorrence of the traitor, commanded, 
that every soldier who bore the name should change 
it, or be immediately dismissed the service. Some 
days after, finding a soldier of Connecticut, who had 
paid no attention to the mandate, he insisted that he 
should instantaneously be expelled from the ranks. 
*' 1 am no traitor, my worthy General," said the sol- 
dier, " and will willingly renounce a name that the 
perfidy of a scoundrel has for ever tarnished, if allowed 
to assume one, which is dear to ev^ry American soldier. 
Let me be Steuben, and be assured that I will never 
disgrace you." " Willingly, my worthy fellow," re- 
plied the Baron. '' Be henceforth Steuben, and add 
to the glory of a name that has already acquired lustre 
by the partial adoption of a brave man." Tiie soldier, 
at the conclusion of the war, kept a tavern in New- 



344 STEUBEN. 

Eiiglaud, exhibiting a representation of his patron as 
a sign ; and as long as the Baron lived, received a 
pension from him as a reward for his partial attach- 
ment. 

The hospitality of Baron Steuben was unbounded. 
Introduced at his villa by a friend, to whose exertions 
in Congress he considered himself peculiarly indebted 
for a pension settled on him for life, he treated me with 
marked attention ; and at the moment of my departure 
said with great politeness, (Sunday being the day on 
which he kept open table for his friends,) " Souvenez 
vons, mon jeune ami., pendant voire sejour a New- 
York, que le Dimanche, est consacre a Dieu et a Steu- 
hen^ 

Dining with him shortly after the resignation of Mr. 
Robert Morris, as Financier of the United States, the 
cause of which appeared inexplicable to the company 
present, " To me," said Baron Steuben, *' there ap- 
pears no mystery. I will illustrate my sentiments by 
a simple narrative. When I was about to quit Paris 
to embark for the United States, the better to insure 
comfort when in camp, I judged it of importance to 
engage in my service a cook of celebrity. The Ame- 
rican army was posted at Valley Forge, when I joined 
it. Arrived at my quarters, a wagoner presented him- 
self, saying that he was directed to attach himself to 
niy train, and obey my orders. Commissaries arriving, 
furnished a supply of beef and bread, and retired. 
My cook looked around him for utensils, indispensable, 
in his opinion, for preparing a meal, and finding none, 
in an agony of despair, applied to the wagoner for 
advice. ' We cook our meat,' replied he, ' by hang- 
ing it up by a string, and turning it before a good fire 
till sufficiently roasted.' The next day — and still 
another passed, without material change. The Com- 
missary made his deposit. My cook showed the 
strongest indications of uaeasincss by shrugs and heavy 



STEUBEN. 545 

sighing; but, with the exception of a few oaths, spoke 
not a word of complaint. His patience, however, was 
completly exhausted ; lie requested an audience, and 
demanded his dismission. * Under happier circum- 
stances, mon General,' said he, * it would be my 
ambition to serve you, but here I have no chance of 
showing my talents, and I think myself obliged, in 
honour, to save you expense, since your wagoner is 
just as able to turn the string as I am.' * Believe me, 
gentlemen,' continued the Baron, ' the Treasury of 
America is, at present, just as empty as my kitchen 
was at Valley Forge; and Mr. Morris wisely retires, 
thinking it of very little consequence ivho turns the 
string, ^ " 

It is a gratification to add, that as a tribute to his 
merit, and reward for his important services, Congress, 
at the conclusion of the war, settled on him a pension 
of two thousand dollars per annum for life; and that 
the State of New-York gave him, as a donation, a 
very fine tract of country. General Washington, who 
was well acquainted with his liberality, said, on tiiis 
occasion, to a friend, who repeated it to me,- — " 1 re- 
joice that Congress have given to so excellent a patriot 
an independency, and by an annuity; for had they be- 
stowed a specific sum, were it ten times the amount, 
the generous heart of Steuben would keep him poor, 
and he would, in all probability, die a beggar." 



GENERAL GATES. 

Although blame must ever attach to General 
Gates, for iiis ungenerous effort to rise to supreme 
command, by effecting the downfall of his superior, en- 
couraging intrigue, and countenancing disaffection the 

44 



^6 GATES. 

more readily to accomplish it. Although the world, 
too apt to censure from appearances, have fixed the 
stigma of precipitancy upon his conduct, which led 
him with blind confidence in the superiority of his own 
judgment and military talent, to mock the admonition 
of General Charles Lee, warning him to avoid the 
chance of exchanging " The Laurel already gained, for 
a wreath of Willow ;" and would lead us, by its cen- 
sures, to blame with asperity, his pointed neglect of 
the prudential advice of De Kalb — " Not too hastily 
to risk a battle." Yet, let us do justice, even when 
compelled to blame. I have, from the information of 
an officer high in his confidence, whose word is truth, 
just cause to believe, that it was not his intention to 
risk a battle when compelled by Cornwallis to engage 
uear Camden. His avowed object was to choose a 
position in the vicinity of Lord Rawdon, and to fortify 
it, so that if the British General ventured to attack 
him, he would be compelled to do it at considerable 
hazard. He frankly declared, that he was not suffi- 
ciently strong in Continental force to risk an engage- 
ment. And to increase the strength of the irregular 
army, Colonel Harrington, an officer of great influence, 
was ordered into North-Carolina, and Colonel Marion 
detached to the lower Pedee, to rouse as many effec- 
tive men to arm in his favour as possible. In confir- 
mation of this statement, the Colonels Porterfield and 
Senff were actually sent forward to reconnoitre, and 
fixed upon a position behind Granny Creek, which 
w^as esteemed altogether fitted to the General's pur- 
poses, having the creek in front, a deep and difficult 
swamp on the right, and commanding grounds on the 
left, which, strengthened by a redoubt and abbatis, 
would give security from attack. Had Lord Rawdon 
remained in command, his schemes might have been 
crowned with success, as that Nobleman had shown 
no disposition to meet him ; but Lord Cornwallis 



/ 



GATES. 347 

arrived, whose enterprising spirit at once discerned the 
danger of delay, and fixed his determination to fight. 
Remaining, therefore, but one night in Camden, he 
inarched forward to battle, justifying the wisdom of 
his measures by the success which attended them. 
Gates was actually on his march to occupy the position 
fixed on, when met by his vigilant enemy, and com- 
pelled to risk, in an unguarded moment, an action, for 
which he was unprepared, and of which the results 
were more disastrous than any battle fought during 
the progress of the Revolution. I would not attempt 
to i)alliate his faults when they call for censure, and 
freely blame his disregard to the reiterated solicitations 
of the Colonels White and Washington, to give the 
sanction of his name and authority to recruit the ca- 
valry ; a measure, had it been adopted, that might have 
given an entire change to the current of success, and 
at all events have saved the lives of hundreds, who fell 
under the merciless sabres of Tarleton's Legionary 
Cavalry. 

Lieutenant Colonel Lee, the accuracy of whose 
judgment is undeniable, thus adverts to this fatal and 
mistaken policy. 

" White and Washington, who, after the disasters of 
Monk's Corner and Lenud's, had retired into North 
Carolina with the view of recruiting their regiments, 
earnestly solicited General Gates to invigorate their 
efforts by the aid of his authority, so as to enable them 
to advance with him to the theatre of action. Gates 
paid no attention to this proper request, and thus de- 
prived himself of the most operative corps belonging to 
the Southern army. Although unfortunate, these regi- 
ments had displayed undaunted courage, and had been 
taught in the school of adversity, that knowledge 
which actual service only can bestow. It is probable, 
that this injurious indifference on the part of the Ame- 
rican commander, resulted from his recurrence to the 



mS GATEi^. 

campaign of 1777, when a British army surrendered to 
him unaided by cavalry; leading him to conclude that 
Armand's corps, already with him, gave an adequate 
portion of this species of force. Fatal mistake! It is 
not improbable that the closeness and ruggedness of 
the country in which he had been so triumphant, did 
render the aid of horse less material, but the moment 
he threw his eyes upon the plains of the Carolinas, 
the moment he saw their dispersed settlements adding 
difficulty to (liiiiculty in the procurement of intelligence 
and provisions ; knowing too, as he did, that the enemy 
had not only a respectable body of Dragoons, but that 
it had been used without intermission, and with much 
effect, it would seem that a discriminating mind must 
have been led to acquiesce in the wish suggested by 
(he two officers of horse. To the neglect of this salu- 
tary proposition may, with reason, be attributed the 
heavy disaster soon after experienced. In no country 
in the world are the services of cavalry more to be de- 
sired, than in that which was committed to the care of 
Major General Gates, and how it was possible for an 
officer of his experience to have been regardless of 
this powerful auxiliary, remains inexplicable. Calcu- 
lating proudly on the weight of his name, he appears 
to have slighted the prerequisites to victory, and to 
have hurried on to the field of battle with the im- 
petuosity of youth ; a memorable instance of the cer- 
tain destruction which awaits the soldier who does not 
know how to estimate prosperity. If good fortune 
begets presumption instead of increasing circumspec- 
tion and diligence, it is the due precursor of deep and 
bitter adversity." 

Yet for the gallantry and good conduct displayed in 
his conflicts with Burgoyne, which caused the surren- 
der of an entire British army, and his indefatigable 
industry in bringing under control, the refractory spirit 
impatient of subordination, manifested in every departs 



GATES. 349 

ment of the army before Boston, he is certainly entitled 
to the gratitude and applause of his country. With 
particular pleasure, therefore, we view the magnani- 
mous conduct of the Legislature of Virginia, who 
sensible that 

'' 'Tis cruelty to wound a falling man." 

regardless of recent misfortunes, and alone remember- 
ing the important services performed by him in happier 
days, as he passed through the city in which they 
were in session, presented, by a select Committee, the 
following complimentary resolution : 



<. 



" IN THE HOUSE OF DELEGATES. 

" Richmond, December 2Stkj 1780. 



" Resolved, That a Committee of four be appointed to wait upo^ 
Major General Gates, and to assure him of the high regard and 
esteem of this House ; that the remembrance of his former services 
cannot be obhterated by any reverse of fortune ; but that this House, 
ever mindful of his great merit, will omit no opportunity of testify- 
ing to the world, the gratitude, which, as a member of the American 
Union, the country owes him in his military character.'' 

I have already stated, that great blame was attached 
to his ambitious project of supplanting the illustrious 
leader of our armies in command. Evidence may be 
wanting to prove him a principal in this iniquitous 
conspiracy; but he may justly be said to have encou- 
raged what he did not endeavour to prevent. Yet in 
the hour of affliction, contrition fell heavy on his 
heart, and the honourable manner in which he evinced 
it, will, I fondly hope, cause his dereliction of duty in 
the first instance, to be buried in endless oblivion. 

I received the following highly interesting Anecdote 
from Dr. William Read, at the period of its occur- 



350 GATES. 

rence, superintending the Hospital Department at 
Hillsborough : 

" Having occasion to call on General Gates, relative 
to the business of the Department under my immediate 
charge, I found him traversing the apartment which he 
occupied, under the influence of high excitement; his 
agitation was excessive — every feature of his counte- 
nance, every gesture betrayed it. Official despatches, 
informing him that he w^as superseded, and that the 
command of the Southern Army had been transferred 
to General Greene, had just been received and perused 
by him. His countenance, however, betrayed no ex- 
pression of irritation or resentment; it was sensibility 
alone that caused his emotion. An open letter which 
he held in his hand, was often raised to his lips, and 
kissed with devotion, while the exclamation repeatedly 
escaped them — ' Great man!' ' Noble, generous pro- 
cedure!' When the tumult of his mind had subsided, 
and his thoughts found utterance, he, with strong ex- 
pression of feeling, exclaimed — ' I have received this 
day a communication from the Commander in Chief, 
which has conveyed more consolation to my bosom, 
more ineffable delight to my heart, than I had believed 
it possible for it ever to have felt again. With affec- 
tionate tenderness he sympathises with me in my 
domestic misfortunes, and condoles with me on the 
loss I have sustained by the recent death of an only 
son ; and then, with peculiar delicacy, lamenting my 
misfortune in battle, assures me, that his confidence in 
my zeal and capacity is so little impaired, that the 
command of the right wing of the army will be bestow- 
ed on me as soon as I can make it convenient to join 
him.'" 



CONWAY. 351 



GENERAL CONWAY. 

There was no officer in the service who engaged 
with greater zeal in the intrigue, by which it was de- 
signed to deprive General Washington of command, 
and place General Gates at the head of the army, 
than General Conway. Intrigue was the cherished 
sphere of his actions ; ambition the predominant passion 
of his heart; and he appeared but little scrupulous as 
to the means employed, while he successfully pursued 
his plans for its indulgence. His aim was to vilify, 
and by the degradation of others to advance his own 
fortunes.. We accordingly find him incessantly harp- 
ing on the incapacity of the Commander in Chief to 
direct the operations of the army ; and denouncing not 
only the ignorance of military tactics, displayed by the 
leaders of particular corps, but the total want of know- 
ledge in the army generally, of the exercises the most 
essential to its perfection. Nor were his censures 
without effect. He gained proselytes in Congress, 
and through their influence i)romotion. But, when 
convinced of the injustice of his conduct, and awed 
by the superior virtue and talents of General Washing- 
ten, he threw aside the veil of prejudice that had 
obscured perception. The handsome manner in which 
he made his apology, does him high honour, and ought 
to be recorded. 

Severely wounded in a duel with General Cadwal- 
lader, and believing death inevitable, he thus addressed 
General Washington : 



" Philadelphia, Fehniary 2Sd, 1778. 
« Sir, 

" I find myself just able to hold my pen during a few minutes, 
and take this opportunity of expressing my sincere grief for having 
done, written, or said any thing disagreeabl*^ to your Excellency. 



352 C01>JWAY, 

My career will soon be over ; therefore, justice and truth prompt liie 
to declare my last sentiments. You are in my eyes the great and 
good man. May you long enjoy the love, esteem, and veneration of 
these States, whose liberties you have asserted by your virtues. 
" I am, with the greatest respect, 

" Your Excellency's most obedient and humble servant, 

"PH. CONWAY. 
^^ His Excellency General Washington." 



GENERAL CHARLES LEE. 

Another and more virulent enemy, with unremitted 
industry sought to destroy the fair and unspotted fame 
of the Commander in Chief, and to impress upon the 
minds of the people an opinion, not only that he was 
unequal to the duty of conducting, successfully, the 
enterprises of the army he commanded, but that the 
jealousy of his disposition induced him to view with 
jaundiced eyes the claims to merit of military men 
whom he knew to be his superiors in talent, and to 
leave no efforts unessayed to accomplished their ruin. 

" What pow'r so strong 
" Can tie the gall up in the slandTOus tongue." — Shaespeare.' 

There can be no misapprehension relative to the in- 
dividual alluded to. Previous to his captivity 1 am 
ready to allow , that General Lee rendered the most 
essential service to America. He engaged in her cause, 
and in defence of her violated rights, with ardent en- 
thusiasm, and, both by precept and example, gave en- 
couragement to firm and intrepid resistance. But 
captivity appears to have broken down his manly 
si)irit, and in the place of that bold, frank, and open 



LEE. 353 

independency of character, by which he had been dis- 
tinguished, to have made him the slave of the most 
malignant and degrading passions, and to have given 
birth to a caiition and timidity inconsistent with his 
natural disposition, and -altogether unbecoming a cham- 
pion for the emancipation of an oi)pressed nation. 
He cordially hated the British ; but he appeared for the 
first time, to have a most exalted opinion of their 
spirit for enterprise. Made a prisoner himself, by a 
shameful carelessness, and exposuse of his person to 
captivity, he was constantly looking forward for some 
new effort of prowess that would increase their repu- 
tation for daring achievement. He made compariscms 
betwixt the Giants (for so he styled the British) and our 
own soldiers, (the Pigmies) which passed not without 
reproof. He called on Congress, (then sitting at York, 
in Pennsylvania,) to order a survey of the Susque- 
hanna, seventy-eight miles from the British Lines, in 
order to fortify a river that could not be fortified, and 
where neither prudence nor necessity required that it 
should be done. 

With regard to his conduct at the battle of Mon- 
mouth, I shall only say, (acquitting him thoroughly of 
the infamous motives that have been alleged against 
him) that had lie obeyed orders, and made a better use 
of the picked troops of the Line immediately under his 
Command, a most decisive victory might have been 
gained, and probably the war itself, promptly and 
decidedly, brought to a conclusion. From this moment, 
both in his conversations and his writings, the great 
aim of his life appears to have been to lessen the repu- 
tation of the Commander in Chief in public estimation. 
But public opinion, and that of the men who were 
more particularly acquainted with facts and circum- 
stances, consigned not only a pamphlet which he pub- 
lished, but his verbal allegations also, to the contempt, 
and I might add, detestation of all good citizens. Tkf 

45 



iJ54 LEE. 

best refutation that can be given to his Calumnies will 
be found in the extract of a letter, not intended by the 
writer for publicity, which I have been favoured with 
from one of our nriost distinguished patriots, which 
shows the unadorned, genuine impulses of a heart and 
mind devoted to the service of his country, without the 
alloy of selfish vain-glorious views, or sordid pursuits. 
It was written to a confidential friend, and dated 



-' West-Point, July 29th, 1779. 
^ Dear Sir, 

" I have a pleasure in acknowledging the receipt of yout 
obliging favour of the 15th instant, and in finding by it, tliat the au- 
thor of the Queries, political and military, has had no great cause 
to exult in the favourable reception of them by the public. Without 
a clue, I should have been at no loss to trace the malevolent writer ; 
but I have seen a history of the transaction, and felt a pleasure, min- 
gled with pain, at the narration. 

'" To stand well in the estimation of one's country, is a happiness 
that no rational creature can be insensible of. To be pursued, first 
under the mask of friendship, and when disguise would suit no 
longer, as an open calumniator, with gross misrepresentation, and 
self-hiown falsehoods, carries an alloy which no temper can bear with 
perfect composure. 

" The motives which actuate this gentleman, are better understood 
by himself than me. If he can produce a single instance in which 
1 have mentioned his name, (after his trial commenced) where it was 
in my power to avoid it ; aiid when it was not, where I have done it 
with the smallest degree of acrimony or disrespect, I will consent, 
that tlie world shall view my character in as disreputable a light as 
he wishes to place it. What cause there is, then, for such a profu- 
sion of venom, as he is emitting upon all occasions — unless by an act 
of public duty, in bringing him to trial at his own solicitation, I have 
disappointed him and raised his ire — or conceiving, that in propor- 
tion as he can darken the shades of my character, he illuminates his 
own. W^hether these, I say, or motives yet more dark and hidden, 



LKE. 355 

govern him, I shall not undertake to decide ; nor have I time to in- 
quire into them at present. 

<• If I had ever assumed the character of a military genius, and 
the oilicer of experience — if under these false colours I had solicited 
the command I was honoured with — or if, after my appointment, 1 
had presumptuously driven on, under tlie sole guidance of my own 
judgment and selfwill — and misfortunes, the result of obstinacy and 
misconduct, not of necessity had followed, I should nave thought 
myself a proper object for the lash, not only of /»>, but the pen of 
every other writer, and a fit subject of public resentment. But, when 
it is well known, that the command was in a manner forced upon me, 
— that I accepted it with the utmost diffidence, from a consciousness 
that it » required greater abilities, and more experience than I pos^ 
sessed, to conduct a great military machine, embarrassed as I knew 
our's must be, by a variety of complex circumstances, and as it were 
but little better than a mere chaos — and when nothing more was 
promised, on my part, than has been most inviolably performed, it is 
rather grating to pass over in silence, charges which may impress the 
uninformed, though others know that these charges have neither rea- 
son nor truth to support them : and that a simple narration of tacts 
would defeat all his assertions, notwithstanding they are made with 
an effrontery which few men do, and for the honour of human nature, 
ought to possess. 

*' If this gentleman is envious of my station, and conceives that 1 
stand in his way to preferment, I can assure him, in most solemn 
terms, that the first wish of my soul is, to return to that peaceful 
retirement, and domestic ease and happiness, from whence I came. 
To this end all my labours have been directed ; and for this purpose 
have I been more than four years a perfect slave, endeavouring, under 
as many embarrassing circumstances as ever fell to any nian's lot to 
encounter j and as pure motives as any man was ever influenced by. 
to promote the cause, and service I had embarked in. 

*^ You may form a pretty good judgment of my prospect to a bril- 
liant campaign, when I inform you, that excepting about four hun- 
dred recruits from the State of Massachusetts, (a portion of which, I 
am told, are children, hired at about fifteen hundred ilollars eacli, for 
i)ine month's service^i I have had no re>-euforc«^m('ni to tlii'^ army 



356 LEE. 

since last campaign ; while our numbers have been, and now are. 
diminishing daily, by the expiring terms of men, death and deser- 
tion, &c. &c. &c." 

The patriotic friend above alluded to, says, — " In 
this letter, and many others that I have seen. General 
Washington consoles himself with his unaffected piety 
and reliance on Providence, whose frequent favours 
all of us in our days of Revolutionary tribulation wit- 
nessed." He adds — " Discouraging as all this is, 1 feel 
more from the state of our currency, and the little at- 
tention which hitherto appears to have been paid to 
our finances, than from the smallness of our army: and 
yet, Providence having so often taken us up, when 
bereft of all other hope, I trust we shall not fail even 
in this." 



MAJOR EVAN EDWARDS. 

Among the many meritorious officers who gained 
distinction in the service, there were i^w who better 
deserved, or in a more extensive degree obtained the 
respect of the public, and affectionate esteem of his 
military associates than Major Edwards. I will not 
indulge my inclination to detail his talents and his vir- 
tues, his ready wit and poignant humour, but confine 
myself to a single Anecdote, perfectly characteristic of 
the man. 

The Major was of the Baptist persuasion, and origi- 
nally designed for the Ministry, but imbibing the mili- 
tary spirit of the times, entered the army, and appeared, 
at the commencement of the war, as one of the de- 
fenders of Fort Washington. A brave and stubborn re- 



RDWARDS. 357 

sistance could not save the post, which fell into the hand* 
of the enemy, and Edwards became a prisoner. I have 
often heard him make a jest of the whimsical and fan- 
tastic fi,e;nre which he exhibited on this occasion. " It 
was not to be wondered," he said, '* that starch in per- 
son, emaciated as an anatomy, with rueful counte- 
nance, rendered more ghastly by misfortune, my dress 
partly military, but showing much of a clerical cut, that 
the risibility of the conquerors should have been very 
highly excited. One of the leaders, however, of the 
sucessful assailants, anxious to excite a still higher 
dei^ree of merriment, ordered me to ascend a cart, and 
as a genuine specimen of a Rebel officer, directed that 
I should be paraded through the principal streets of 
New -York. It was at the entrance of Canvass Town, 
that I was much amused by the exclamation of a Scot- 
tish female follower of the Camp, who called to a 
companion—-' Quick, quick lassie, rin hither a wee, 
and devarte yoursel, they've cotch'd a braw and bonny 
Rebel, 'twall de ye guid to laugh at him.' Hooting 
and derision attended my whole career, and at the con- 
clusion of the farce I was committeti to prison." 

In the eventful changes of the war it so happened, 
that the veny individual who had so ungenerously 
abused his power became a captive, experiencing 
the additional mortification of yielding his sword into 
the hands of the man so lately treated with scorn- 
ful indignity. Struck with the singularity of the 
rencounter, and thoroughly ashamed of his former 
behaviour, he with frankness, said — ' You are the last 
man, Sir, that I w^ished to meet on such an occasion, 
for no one have I ever so wantonly offended; from 
you I have nothing to look for but merited retaliation.' 
' Not a word more on the subject, I beseech you. Sir,' 
was the reply of Edwards, * the surrender of your 
sword destroyed every recollection of former animosity ; 
rest assured, therefore, that while you remain with us^ 



358 EDWARDS. 

it will be equally my pride and pleasure to sooth the 
pains of captivity, and to render you every service in 
my power.' " 

The cheerful disposition of Edwards, rendered hina 
as I have already stated, an universal favourite. The 
occasional indulgence of satirical propensities, pecu- 
liarly so, of General Charles Lee, who made him his 
Aid-de-Camp, and at his death left him a third of his 
estate. I never knew him, however, make an ill- 
natured remark, where he was not provoked to do so — 
then indeed, he spared not. 

A Colonel in the army, who was too much inclined 
to be poetical in his ])rose, telling Edwards, that he 
had heard a report concerning him, that had greatly 
amused him, the Major assured him that it was alto- 
gether without foundation. " O, no," said the Colo- 
nel, " deny it not — it must be true, and I will report 
and give it currency." " Thank you, thank you, kind 
Sir," rejoined Edwards, " your doing so, will save me 
thjB trouble of contradicting it." 



Among the intelfigent men connected with the army 
of the South, none was more admired in society than 
Mr. Richard Beresford. He pleased by his eccentri- 
city, and still more by the satirical shafts of his wit, 
which he threw with the happiest success. His ob- 
servations were laconic, but ever pointedly severe ; 
which occasioned Edwards to say, " I like that cyni- 
cal humourist, Beresford ; he constantly reminds me 
of one of your snapping turtle, never putting his head 
beyond his shell, but to bite at somebody." 



SCHUYLER. . 359 



GENERAL SCHUYLER. 

Prejudices that it would be difficult to account for, 
having rendered General Schuyler unpopular among 
the troops, Congress were induced to supercede him, 
and to nominate General Gates, commander of the 
^rmy opposed to Burgoyne. The patriotism and mag- 
nanimity displayed by the Ex-General, on this occa- 
sion, does him high honour. All that could have been 
effected, to impede the progress of the British army, 
had been done already. Bridges were broken up — 
Causeways destroyed — trees felled in every direction 
to retard the conveyance of stores and artillery. Pa- 
trols were employed to give speedy intelligence of 
every movement of the enemy, and detached corps of 
light troops to harass and keep up perpetual alarm. 

On Gates' arrival. General Schuyler, without the 
slightest indication of ill-humour, resigned his com- 
mand, communicated all the intelligence he possessed, 
and put every interesting paper into his hands, simply 
adding, " I have done all that could be done as far as 
the means were in my power, to injure the enemy, 
and to inspire confidence in the soldiers of our own 
army, and I flatter myself with some success ; but the 
palm of victory is denied me, and it is left to you, 
General, to reap the fruits of my labours. I will not 
fail, however, to second your views ; and my devotion 
to my country, will cause me with alacrity to obey 
all your orders." He performed his promise, and 
faithfully did his duty, till the surrender of Burgoyne 
put an end to the coptest. 

Another Anecdote is recorded to his honour. Gene- 
ral Burgoyne, dining with General Gates immediately 
after the Convention of Saratoga, and hearing Gene- 
ral Schuyler named among the officers presented to 



560 SCHUYLER. 

him, thought it necessary to apologize for the destruc- 
tion of his elegant mansion a few days before, by his 
orders. *' Make no excuses, General," was the reply, 
" I feel myself more than compensated by the pleasure 
of meeting you at this table," 



QUAKER 

CONGRATULATIONS 



AFTER 



THE BATTLE OF GlTlLFORn. 



Lord Cornwallis, immediately subsequent to the 
battle of Guilford, having broken up his encampment, 
and recommended his wounded to the humanity of Gen- 
eral Greene, commenced his march upon Wilmington. 
Every movement was anxiously watched, and already 
Lee was on his flank, ready to strike, where the least 
ai)pearance gave the hope of doing it advantageously. 
It was on the second day's march that the Legion was 
approached by a company of about two hundred men, 
riding on pacing ponies, in the costume of Quakers, 
broad brimmed and short skirted, and headed by a 
marauder in full military dress, on their way to con- 
gratulate his Lordship on the brilliancy and importance 
of his victory. The same mistake was again made 
that led to the defeat of Pyle. Lee and his Dragoons 
were mistaken for Tarleton and his Legion ; and these 
Sons of Peace supposing that they might speak with 
impunity, were as free of invective against the suporters 
of American principles, as if they had been blasphemers 
from their cradles. Their leader was pre-eminently 
distinguished bv his abuse and insolence, which he 

4B 



362 QUAKER CONGRATULATIONS. 

ultimately carried to such extremity, and so highly 
exasperated the surrounding Dragoons with whom he 
conversed, that, yielding to the dominion of passion, 
one of them drew forth a pistol, and fatally discharging 
it, laid him dead at his feet. The consternation which 
followed cannot well be conceived of; fear paralized 
exertion ; the whole party, stupified and silent, remain- 
ed as if awaiting annihilation. Lee, who was ever 
eloquent, and conspicuously so when called on to speak 
on the spur of occasion, now advanced, and bidding 
them dismiss every apprehension for their personal 
safety, harangued them for a full half hour in such im- 
pressive and pathetic language, pointing out the folly 
and wickedness of their procedure, and representing the 
vengeance that would inevitably follow the repetition 
of their offence, that one and all avowed their sense of 
error, and promised to sin no more. " Retire, then," 
said Lee, *' seek your homes, and secure safety by sub- 
mission." The troop immediately wheeled, and for a 
short distance moved forward with regularity, but as if 
the words sauve qui pent liad been given, first one, and 
then another squad, broke off from the main body, and 
in a little turn, as you list, a Quaker was seen pushing 
forward his tackey to the full bent of his speed ; and he 
appeared to consider himself the most happy who 
could fastest fly from an enemy, who, though humane, 
might prove capricious, and end the interview in 
slaughter. 



FAILURE OF THE CONTEMPLATED ATTACK ON 
JOHN'S ISLAND. 



Lieutenant Colonel Lee, in his Memoirs, ap- 
pears to consider the circumstance which occasioned 
the abandonment of this enterprise, as one of the most 
unfortunate of the war. He had anticipated a bril- 
liant Partisan stroke, when by an unlooked for accident, 
his views were completely blasted. I shall record it, 
if only to show, that in the occurrences of war, destruc- 
tion is often at hand, when conviction exists of the 
most perfect security. 

Colonel Craig, one of the most distinguished officers 
in the British service, was encamped with a conside- 
rable force near the centre of the Island, firmly believ- 
ing it impossible for him to be surprised by an enemy. 
By the aid of numerous gallies and gun-boats, he had 
the entire command of the navigation, and all the 
small craft in the vicinity were in his possession. 

At the Church Flats, the River Stono dividing the 
Island from the Main, was known to be fordable at 
low water ; but, to command this pass two stout gal- 
lies were stationed, and so near to each other, as to 
admit of conversation betwixt their crews, while the 
sentinels every half hour parsed the watch words — 
"All's well!" 

To strike at the command of Colonel Craig, two 
powerful detachments were selected and placed under 
the orders of Lee and Laurens. Had these reached 
the Island, they were sufficient to ensure victory, and 



364 CONTEMPLATED ATTACK, &c. 

they would have had the advantage of falling upon an 
enemy, in all probability careless from a false security, 
and altogether unprepared for action. But, unfortunate- 
ly in the api)roach to the river, the division of Laurens, 
commanded by Major James Hamilton, as good and 
intrepid an officer as any in the service, being badly 
guided, missed its way, and was lost in the woods. 
The division of Lee, under the guidance of Captain 
Freer, a patriotic Islander, arrived at the pass at the 
happiest moment. The tide was out, and Captain 
Rudolph, who led the van with the Legion Infantry, 
passed the river between the gallies, undiscovered. 
The remainder were ready to follow, when some un- 
easiness being entertained on account of the delay of 
Laurens' division, a halt was ordered. Thus exposed, 
the troops remained above an hour, the British senti? 
nels on each side continuing the cry of " All 's well !" 
The rapid flow of the tide soon increased the difficulty 
of passing so much, the water being up to the breast 
of the tallest man. that Rudolph was recalled ; and to 
the mortification of all concerned, the expedition ended 
in retreat. 

What has been suggested of the consequences which 
would have resulted, had the American forces passed 
the river, is justified by the conduct of the enemy ; for 
on the next day, being apprized of the contemplated 
attack, the whole force, which was dispersed over the 
Island, was collected, and with great precipitation re- 
moved to Charleston. 



CONTEMPLATED MUTINY OF THE ARMY UNDER 
GENERAL GREENE. 



When the Continental Arni}^ reached the lower 
country, in the fall 1781, and encamped at the Round- 
O, the means of subsistance were abundant. Plenty 
begat waste, and the consumption of every essential 
article of provision and forage, was so extravagant, 
that before the end of the winter, the difficulty of pro- 
curing food made it doubtful, whether it would not be 
necessary again to retire into the interior. The sea- 
son was altogether unpropitious to the transportation 
of supplies. The rains were incessant. This caused 
the good humoured Linton of Washington's, with 
more truth than politeness, to say to a lady who asked 
him, " How he liked the low country of Carolina? 
" Were I a duck, a crane, or a curlew, I might be 
qualified to give you an answer. Madam ; for, since 
my arrival in it, the face of the earth has never been 
within my view." These discouraging circumstances, 
the absolute want of decent clothing — the increase 
of disease, and dangerous predicament of having no 
active employment, gave existence to that spirit of 
mutiny of which I shall now speak. I wish that this 
disgraceful event could be blotted from our history ; 
but, as it did happen, there are circumstances connected 
with it, that deserve to be recorded. 

The mutiny of the Pennsylvania Line in Jersey, 
had spread dismay throughout the continent, and was 
regarded by the enemy as the prelude to universal re- 



S66 CONTEMPLATED MUTINY, &c. 

volt. Their disappointment was great, for a redress 
of grievances was all that was sought for ; and satis- 
faction being judiciously offered to the insurgents by 
our Government, they gave up the emissaries who had 
been sent from New-York, to encourag*^ the spirit of 
opposition, and cheerfully returned to their duty. No 
immediate evil was the result ; but this example of 
insubordination was, at a later period, productive of 
alarming consequences. Destitute, as I have stated, 
of clothing — stinted in food — severely afflicted by dis- 
ease, discontent began to manifest itself in the most 
appalling colours. The first indication of it that I 
recollect, was a placard near the quarters of General 
St. Clair, who commanded the Pennsylvanians, to this 
effect — " Can soldiers be expect^! to do their duty, 
clothed in rags, and fed on rice." Suspicion attaching 
to a few disorganizing characters, theij, to escape 
punishment, went over to the enemy, and tranquillity 
was, for a time, restored. The embers, however, 
that had been smothered, but not extinguished, were 
speedily revived, and were ready to burst into flame, 
through the intrigues of a Sergeant of the Pennsyl- 
vanians, and two domestics attached to the family of 
General Greene, who opened a correspondence with 
the enemy, and engaged, on a given day, to deliver up 
their commander and every officer of distinction. A 
female, who had noticed the murmuring of the dis- 
affected, and unguarded expressions of the ringleader, 
occasioned the discovery of the plot. The light troops, 
who had for some little time been indulged with com- 
fortable quarters in the rear, to recover from the 
fatigues of severe service, were immediately brought 
forward. To them, not a shade of suspicion attached. 
Washington's, Gill's, and the Legion Cavalry, took 
their station in advance. The Delawares, Smith's 
company of Virginia Regulars, and Legion Infantry, 
were drawn nearer to Head-Quarters. A troop of 



CONTEMPLATED MUTINY, &c. 367 

horse was pushed forward to watch the motions of the 
enemy. The Sergeant was arrested, tried, and ex- 
ccuttx]. The fate of the country was suspended by a 
thread — destruction would inevitably have followed 
irresolution. Greene was sensible of it, and strid- 
ing with decision, gave a death blow to faction, and 
every symptom of revolt. It was a melancholy 
sight, awful indeed, and appalling, to behold a youth, 
an Apollo in shape, as fine a military figure as ever 
trod the earth, led forth to pay the penalty of 
his perfidy. He walked with a firm step, and com- 
posed countenance, distributing as he passed along, 
to such of his companions as approached him, seve- 
ral articles of his clothing, at that period precious 
legacies. His hat he gave to one, his coat to another, 
his sleeve buttons to a third. Every countenance ex- 
pressed sorrow, but not a murmur was heard. Arrived 
at the fatal spot, he in few words, but in the most im- 
pressive manner, called upon his comrades, *' not to 
sully their glory, nor forego the advantages they would 
speedily realize from the termination of the war; and if 
a thought of desertion was harboured in their bosoms, at 
once to discard it. I have no cause (he added) to com- 
plain of the Court ; I certainly spoke imprudently, and 
from the evidence given of my guilt, they could not 
have acted otherwise." He then gave the signal to 
the platoon selected from his own corps — was fired on, 
and expired. Great pains had been taken by General 
Greene, as soon as suspicion was excited, to make a 
full discovery. As soon, however, as sufficient evidence 
was obtained, he waited not to ascertain the extent of 
the evil, but by a decided step crushed it effectuall}^ 
The delay of a few hours must have occasioned the 
loss of our officers, and probably the death of every 
faithful soldier. O'Neal had been sent to watch the 
motions of the enemy, accompanied by Middleton as 
his second, and Captain Rudolph, who had volunteer- 



368 CONTEMPLATED MUTINY, &c. 

ed. Passing Bacon and Eagle bridges, they patrolled 
the road for several miles below Dorchester, and see- 
ing no appearance of any party without their lines, 
wheeled his troop to return. Rudolph, with two Dra- 
goons, was in advance. On a sudden three well- 
mounted Black Troopers appeared in front. These 
were immediately charged. The chief fell by the arm 
of Pope, a soldier of distinguished gallantry. Rudolph 
dismounted the second, and made him a prisoner; the 
third escaped. The captive being asked if the British 
Cavalry were out in force, declared — '' That a single 
troop, under the command of Captain Dawkins, had 
gone by the way of Goose Creek Bridge, a few miles 
higher, and were to return by the way of Dorchester." 
Knowing the firmness of Rudolph, the valour of Mid- 
dleton, and tried bravery of his troop, O'Neal pushed 
forw^ard in full expectation of a complete triumph. 
Dawkins was soon discovered passing through the vil- 
lage of Dorchester, and bearing down upon him. The 
charge was sounded on both sides, and a fierce con- 
flict began ; but before any material advantage could 
be gained, the bugle was heard from another quarter, 
and infantry rose in every direction. A road leading 
towards Goose Creek, afforded the only chance of 
retreat: this was immediately taken, and though ex- 
posed to a heavy fire, the officers and most of the pri- 
vates escaped without injury. Nine men and fifteen 
horses of the troop fell into the hands of the enemy. 
Twelve of the traitors attached to the Main Army, 
quitted the standard of their country, and reached the 
British Lines in safety. The spirit of discontent ap- 
peared to fly with them. Till the final departure of 
the enemy no sign of dissatisfaction was ever again 
discovered. 



EVACUATION OF CHARLESTON. 



Long had the departure of the enemy been looked 
for with anxious solicitude ; yet still was it protracted, 
till many adopted the opinion of General Gadsden, 
who, whenever the intention of abandoning the Capi- 
tal was mentioned, said, *' I will never believe that 
they are sincere in their intention to quit us, till they 
have fairly crossed the bar of Charleston." At length, 
on the evening of the 12th December, 1782, the Le- 
gion were ordered to cross the Ashley and move for- 
ward towards the British Lines, and to endeavour as 
much as possible to harass the retiring garrison. 

A detachment of Refugees, know from circum- 
stances to have left the city expressly to murder Mr. 
John Parker of Goose Creek, who had, but a few 
nights before, in defending his house against their 
attacks, killed their leader, Robins, were met with, and 
driven back so much under the influence of terror, that 
they eluded the pursuit even of our swiftest coursers. 
They were entering the plantation at one gate, when 
the Legion reached the house by another. Sensible 
that their motives could not be misunderstood, (their 
threats had indeed declared them) they shrunk from 
action and iled. 

Pedbiusque tbmr addidit alis. 

A considerable detachment of infantry that had 
crossed during the night ^t Ashley Ferry, under the 
command of Major James Hamilton, and a company 

47 



370 EVACUATION OF CHARLESTON. 

of artillery under Captain Singleton, joined at day 
light, and the whole under the direction of General 
Wayne, moved towards the British out-post at Shu- 
bricks ; but, before any indication of hostility could be 
shown, a gentleman of respectability advancing, pro- 
posed on the part of General Leslie, *' That no impe- 
diment should be offered to embarkation ; in which 
case, he pledged himself that no injury should be done 
to the town. But, in the event of attack, he should 
use every means to insure security, and not be answer- 
able for any consequences that might follow. '^ Gen- 
eral Wayne gave a ready consent to the proposition, 
and immediately withdrew his troops to Accabee — not 
to refresh them, for they were totally destitute of food 
— but to prepare themselves, to make as handsome an 
appearance as circumstances would admit of, on the 
following morning. On the 14th, at day-break, a gun 
was fired to apprize the British of the approach of the 
American force, which now moved forward towards 
the city. Arriv^ed at their lines, as the ramparts were 
mounted, the Yaugers were seen retiring about fifty 
yards in front ; and some of our oflficers, not in com- 
mand, rode forward, and conversed with those of the 
army who were embarking. Orders had been issued 
by General Leslie, for the inhabitants to remain in 
their houses, and so strictly obeyed, that the Main 
Guard- House had actually been taken possession of, by 
Captain Rouvrey of the Maryland Line, before it was 
known that our troops were in the city. It appeared, 
however, that the enemy were not without suspicion, 
that they might receive a parting blow — for gallies in 
the Ashley and Cooper Rivers, dropped down in a line 
with our troops, the whole length of the Neck ; and iit 
front of the Bay, as the cavalry moved in their view, 
the men of war and armed vessels were ranged, with 
lighted matches, and every pueparation for action ; but 



EVACUATION OF CHARLESTON. 37i 

MOt a shot was fired on either side, and the articles of 
convention strictly adhered to. 

In the evening General Greene entered the town, 
and was received with respectful homage. Great re- 
joicing could not be expected, as the persons found in 
the garrison were chiefly British merchants, who re- 
mained with permission to dispose of their goods, or 
Americans who had submitted, and who, though re- 
joiced at heart, might have considered it as indecorous 
to have shown external manifestation of it. The 
§uard at night was committed to the Legion; and, in 
a very little time, every apartment was crowded with 
soldiers and sailors, who had emerged from their hiding 
places, and surrendered themselves, or who were 
brought in by the patrols, being found at imi)roper hours 
in the streets. On the following morning General 
Wayne called at an early hour at the Guard-House, 
and handsomely said, — " I wish not to take advantage 
of circumstances. If there are any men among you, 
who have inadvertently remained behind, and not with 
intention to quit the British standard, let them speak; 
they shall not be regarded as prisoners, but be imme- 
diately conveyed on board the fleet." Nineteen sailors 
stepping forward, declared, " that they had only re- 
mained on shore to see the end of a frolic, and that 
they should be glad to profit by his generous offer." 
Lieutenant Middleton, with a proper compliment to 
General Leslie for the handsome manner in which he 
had prevented the town from being injured, embarked 
with a flag of truce, and delivered the men in his charge 
to Commodore Sweeney, who commanded the Naval 
department. 

On the morning of the evacuation, a very singular 
occurrence took place. Captain Cams observing a 
soldier, as he believed, dressed in a regimental exactly 
resembling that worn by the Legion, stepping hastily 
into the very last boat, put his hand on his shoulder, 



372 EVACUATION OF CHARLESTON. 

and demanded, " Whither so fast, my lad ; you surely 
cannot wish to desert." " Sir," said the person held, 
" you are mistaken. I am a Captain in the British ser- 
vice." Cams immediately relinquished his hold, and 
apologized for his error. The boat pushed off, when 
it was discovered that the imprudent being who had 
so long delayed his departure, was Mr. William Oli- 
phant, late a Captain in the Continental Army, who, 
seduced by the promises of Lord C. Montague, had, 
to the unutterable grief of his venerable father, forsaken 
the cause of his country, and accepted a commission 
in his regiment. 



mf^rellaneotts mnttXfoUu. 



NIGHT ATTACK ON GENERAL WAYNE. 

OiNE of the most singular occurrences of the war, 
was the midnight attack upon the Camp of General 
Wayne, then laying at Gibbons' Plantation, about five 
miles distant from Savannah, by Gurestcssego, a chief 
of the Creek nation. The intrepidity of this gallant 
warrior was, in the first instance, attended with com- 
plete success. The sentinels were surprised, the camp 
entered, and cannon taken. The endeavour to render 
them serviceable proved his ruin ; the time was lost 
w^hich should have been employed in pursuing his suc- 
cess; and the confusion occasioned by so unlooked for 
an attack having subsided, the bayonet of Parker's 
Light Infantry, and desperate charge made by Gunn, 
proved irresistible. The chief, fighting hand to hand 
with Wayne, was killed. Seventeen of his warriors 
fell; the rest, abandoning their pack-horses, and leav- 
ing a very considerable prize of peltry to the victors, 
fled. It must for ever be regretted, that this rencounter, 
in which consummate gallantry was displayed on both 
sides, did not terminate here; but, unhappily, a report, 
which the very nature of the attack rendered probable, 
produced the most dire catastrophe. It appeared in- 
credible that Indians, accustomed for the most part to 
resort to stratagem for success, should, without the 
certainty of timely support, venture on so bold and 
hazardous an enterprise. An alarm wa§ spread that 



574 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

the enemy from Savannah, led on by the gallant 
JBrowne, were at hand, hastening to support their 
allies ; and twelve young warriors, who were prisoners, 
were doomed to die, lest they should join the expected 
assailants. The precipitancy of the order caused many 
a pang to the heart of the General, for before the falsity 
of the intelligence could be ascertained, the devoted 
victims were delivered up a sacrifice, and unresisting 
fell. 



MAJOR MAXWELL. 

Towards the conclusion of the war, the hostile 
attacks of the Cherokees on our frontier, compelled 
General Greene to order General Pickens to invade 
their territory, and by exemplary punishment bring 
them to a proper sense of their error. With his accus- 
tomed zeal and activity Pickens performed the service, 
and with complete success. Mounting his men, and 
adopting the sword instead of the rifle, he so con- 
founded his enemy, that unable to withstand the bold- 
ness and fury of his charge, they speedily relinquished 
every idea of resistance, and precipitately fled. Forty 
Indians were killed, many prisoners taken, and thirteen 
towns reduced to ashes. Opposition ceased. 

Having often heard of a desperate conflict that had 
taken place on this occasion, betwixt a Chief of renown 
and Major Maxwell of the militia, I asked the particu- 
lars of that gentleman, and received the interesting 
communication which follows : 

" While charging the enemy, my horse was shot 
dead beneath me; I received a very injurious fall, and 
had scarcely time to rise and put myself on my guard, 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 375 

when an Indian of prodigious power and activity, rush- 
ing furiously upon me, inflicted a deep and dangerous 
wound with his tomahawk ; receiving at the same mo- 
ment from my arm a deep sabre cut, that prostrated 
him to earth. Recovering about the same time, the first 
shock of our rencounter, we closed with increased 
animosity, and resolutely contending for victory, in 
turn appeared to obtain a superiority. In activity the 
Indian surpassed me. In strength I was his superior; 
and my advantage was still increasing, as the copious 
flow of blood issuing from his wound, rendered him at 
every instant more enfeebled. I perceived a creek to 
be near us ; I profited by the circumstance, and lifting 
my adversary in my arms, rushed into the deepest part 
of it, forced his head beneath the surface, and held it 
there, till life had completely left him. 



GENERAL WILLIAM BUTLER, 

The interesting Anecdotes relative to the sanguinary 
warfare in our interior country, which immediately 
follow, were obtained from Mr. Pickens Butler, son of 
the distinguished revolutionary Partisan, the late Gen- 
eral William Butler. 

The first unfortunately gives an appalling picture of 
the savage ferocity exercised by the Tories, while aim- 
ing at the subjugation of their adversaries, and must in 
the eyes of candour, tend to palliate the ° retaliatory 
measures resorted to by the Whigs. At a time vvnon 
the Loyalists were numerous and powerful in the inte- 
rior of the State, James Butler, who ^^as at the head 
of a party of Whigs, finding himself closely followed, 
and likely to be overpowered by Cunningham's hor,se, 



376 AllSCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

sought shelter in a house near Cloud's Creek. He 
was quickly assailed by his pursuers, and defended 
himself with great gallantry ; but, his ammunition be- 
ing totally expended, he was driven to the necessity of 
listening to the tender of mercy proposed by Cunning- 
ham, and surrendered. The house was now closely 
surrounded to prevent escape. The arms of Mr. 
Butler and his party were demanded, and given up, 
when, to the disgrace of human nature, the unfortunate 
prisoners were marched out one by one, and delibe- 
rately cut to pieces. The ferocious leader of the 
Loyalists singled out Mr. Butler as his victim, and 
slew him with his own hand. One man alone escaped. 
A monument, erected by William Butler, with pious^ 
regret for so cruel a bereavement, marks to this day 
the spot where his intrepid father fell. 

Shortly after the capture of Charleston, Captain 
Michael Watson, a man of great courage, at the head 
of a party of eighteen mounted Rangers, raised at the 
ridge of Edgefield, took the field with determined 
iiostility against the Tories. William Butler (at an 
after period so highly distinguished as an active and 
intrepid Partisan) commanded a small body of cavalry, 
fifteen only in number, near the same place. These 
gallant Patriots, receiving information that a party of 
Tories were encamped in Dean's Swamp, near 
Orangeburgh, resolved to attack them, and uniting 
their forces for that purpose, marched forward at sun- 
down, with great rapidity, the more certainly to sur- 
prise them. About midnight, they met with and de- 
tained as a prisoner, one Hutto, a disaffected man, and 
taking him aloug with them, pursued their march. At 
the dawn of day, when very near the encampment of 
their enemy, Hutto escaped, w^hich at once destroyed 
the hope of meeting their adversaries unprepared for 
action. Watson declared it madness to proceed, but 
Butler, who had recently wept a murdered parent, and 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 377 

whose feelings were excited to the highest pitch of 
irritation, avowed his firm determination to proceed at 
all hazards. . Watson, though disinclined in the first 
instance to pursue the enterprise, was not a man to be 
left behind, when a prospect appeared of gaining re- 
nown, and of serving his country. On the verge of 
Dean's Swamp, two men were seen standing alone. 
Butler, Watson, and Varney, a Sergeant of great in- 
trepidity, rode rapidly forward to secure their capture, 
the rest of the party closely following them. Butler 
was now within twenty yards of them, when Watson 
cried aloud, *' Beware ! the whole body of the enemy 
are at hand !" The Tories rose, as he spoke, from 
their ambuscade, and by a well directed fire, brought 
AVatson, Varney, and several others to the ground. 
*' Suffer me not," exclaimed Watson, '' to fall into 
their hands." Butler heard the appeal, and though 
severely galled in the attempt, in retiring carried with 
him the bodies of his friends. 

It was now seen, that the Tories doubled the num- 
ber of the Whig Party, who experienced the additional 
mortification of seeing themselves abandoned by some 
few of their associates, who fled ; and of finding, that 
in the conflict, though short, the whole of their ammu- 
nition had been expended. The Royalists were now 
advancing with perfect confidence of victory, when 
Butler, forming his troop in compact order, and nam- 
ing an intrepid soldier, John Corley, his Lieutenant 
charged into their ranks, depending entirely on the 
sword. The violence and suddenness of the onset, 
astonished and disconcerted the enemy to such a de- 
gree, as to throw them into confusion. Had the 
opportunity been given them to rally, their numbers 
would have given them victory; but, pressed by But- 
ler with an impetuosity even superior to that with 
which the attack was commenced, they turned their 
backs in despair, were driven into the swamp with 

48 



378 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

great slaughter, and dispersed. The Whigs now re- 
turned to the high land. As they passed the gallant 
Varney he made an effort to rise — waved his hand in 
triumph — fell again — and expired ! Administering 
comfort to those whom their care could benefit, a 
soldier's grave was dug with soldiers' swords, and Var- 
ney^s body deposited where the brave are proud to lie — 
the field of Victory ! 



GALLANTRY OF A BOY OF FOURTEEN. 

When Captain Falls, at the battle of Ramsour's 
Mill, received a mortal wound and fell, his son, a youth 
of fourteen, rushed to the body, as the man who had 
shot him was preparing to plunder it; regardless of his 
opponent's strength, the intrepid youth, snatching up 
his father's sword, plunged it into the breast of the 
soldier, and laid him dead at his feet. 



LIEUT. BALLARD SMITH, OF VIRGLNIA, 

ATTACHED TO THE LEGION OF INFANTRY. 

Shortly after the capture of the British Galley by 
Rudolph, where Lieutenant Smith acted as second in 
command, a Partisan enterprise was undertaken by 
him, which, had it succeeded, must have filled the 
British garrison with confusion and dismay. A tavern, 
called at that time Dewees', was kept at a farm house 
about two miles from Charleston. To this the British 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 379 

officers frequently repaired for recreation. It was often 
the scene of entertainments, and on one occasion of a 
splendid ball. Lieutenant Smith being previously 
apprized of this, took with him twelve m? n, and Ser- 
geant Du Coin, of the Legion, a soldier of tried 
courage, and passed the river with a boat rowed with 
muffled oars, from the American, to the opposite shore. 
The night was dark and gloomy. The negro who 
served as guide bewildered by it, and probably appre- 
hensive of consequences if discovered, missed the land- 
ing place, and ran the boat into the marsh that skirted 
the shore. Du Coin, to make discoveries, slipped 
silently overboard, but, from the softness of the mud, 
with infinite difficulty reached the shore, immediately 
below the house. Curiosity led him to see what was 
passing within ; the noise of music and revelry facili- 
tated his approach, he leapt the fence, and passing 
through the garden, gained access to a window, through 
which he perceived a large and elegant assemblage of 
company enjoying the delights of dancing. Alone and 
unarmed, without a chance of success, he returned to 
the water's edge, and after ascertaining the exact situa- 
tion of the landing place, regained the boat. So much 
time had already been lost, the ebbing tide too being 
unfavourable to his purpose. Lieutenant Smith thought 
it best to retire, hoping to return, on some future occa- 
sion, with better success. The following night being 
favourable to enterprise, the river was passed as before, 
and the boat, steered by Du Coin, made the landing. 
Lieutenant Smith immediately surrounding the house, 
entered it, in full expectation of making a handsome 
capture of officers, but his evil genius forbade it. In- 
stead of twenty or thirty officers, many of them of high 
rank, a Hessian Major, and a Lieutenant of the volun- 
teers of Ireland, who had sacrificed too freely to Bac- 
chus, were the only persons found on the premises. 
These he parolled, and returned without molestation. , 



380 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 



LIEUTENANT FOSTER, OF VIRGINIA, 

ATTACHED TO THE LEGION. 

About the same period, a British armed vessel 
anchored opposite to Mr. Fuller's plantation, near Ash- 
ley Ferry. Lieutenant Foster, who commanded a 
scouting party in the neighbourhood, concluding that 
plunder was the object, and Mr. Fuller's, the point of 
destination, secreted his men so efF< ctually in the 
marsh, near the landing place, that the marauders ad- 
vancing in their boat, never suspected their danger till 
they saw the musksts of eighteen men, within ten 
yards, directly levelled at them. One man snatched 
up a blunderbuss and would have resisted, had he not 
been restrained by his companions, who, calling loudly 
for quarter, surrendered at discretion. This was a 
very acceptable prize. A fine boat, completely equip- 
ped, well provided with comforts, and twenty-six pri- 
soners, well armed, surrendered without a shot being 
fired. Freed from alarm on account of personal safety, 
the captives could not avoid jesting with each other on 
their misfortune, so completely and unexpectedly en- 
snared when confident of success, they had made their 
descent, well provided, not only with bags to carry off 
property, but with poles with slip-knots fixed to their 
ends, for the purpose of securing pigs and poultry. 
Their captivity was of short duration. Colonel Lau- 
rens, who commanded in the neighbourhood, sent 
them ill their own boat, under the sanction of a flag 
of truce, to Charleston, making them the heralds of 
their own disgrace. 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 381 



LIEUTENANT JOHN RHODES, 

OF PRINCE WILLIAMS. 

The British, while in possession of Port-Royal 
Island, kept a strong detachment of troops at Roupell's 
Ferry. A small militia guard, commanded by Lieu- 
tenant Rhodes of the Prince William's Company, 
were stationed at Page's Point, on the opposite shore. 
Sensible that it would be easy for an enterprising 
enemy, from the number of navigable creeks that led 
to his rear, to cut off his party, the Lieutenant judi- 
ciously made a representation of his perilous situation 
to the commanding Continental Officer at Sheldon. 
Brigade Major Hamilton of the 1st Regiment, was 
immediately sent to judge of the accuracy of the state- 
ment, who, finding it strictly correct, wrote for and 
obtained a Sergeant's guard of Continentals, to 
strengthen the command. '* While so near the enemy," 
said Hamilton, *' I would pay them a closer visit could 
I find a proper guide." " I am acquainted," replied 
Lieutenant Rhodes, *' with every foot of the ground 
they occupy, and will willingly accompany you across 
the river." Hastily conceived, and promptly entered 
on. the expedition was immediately carried into effect. 
A boat was prepared, and the river passed with muffled 
oars. A Sergeant's guard was approached, surrounded, 
and with the exception of one man who escaped, and 
the Sergeant, who resisting, was severely wounded by 
Lieutenant Rhodes, brought off. This Partisan stroke 
was accomplished by eleven men, officers included, 
four of whom never quitted the boat. 



582 TVIILCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 



LIEUTENANT PARHAM. 

During the action at Stono, Lieutenant Parham, 
the Adjutant of the Light Infantry, was stationed by 
Major Pinckney in the rear of the Continentals, pur- 
posely to keep the men in their stations, and prevent 
the possibility of skulkers falling behind. As he pass- 
ed over the field of battle, a British officer, desperately 
wounded, pressed him so earnestly to afford him a 
drink of water, to slake consuming thirst, that to re- 
fuse was deemed impossible, and the request was com- 
plied with. The British officer now presenting an 
elegant watch, said, — ^* Take it. Sir, 'tis yours by con- 
quest; your generous procedure, too, gives you still 
greater title to it." " I came into the field," said Par- 
ham, "to fight, and not to plunder; it gives me 
pleasure to have rendered you service; I ask no other 
recompense." " Keep it for me then, in trust," rejoined 
the oflicer, " till we meet again, for if left in my hands, 
it may be wrested from me by some marauder, who, to 
secure silence, may inflict death." " I will accede to 
your wishes, and take charge of it," said Parham, 
'' but soon as opportunity offers, consider it a sacred 
duty to return it." 

A very considerable period elapsed before a second 
meeting took place; but, in strict conformity to his 
honourable feeling, and voluntary promise, Parham no 
sooner found himself within reach of the man to whom 
he had pledged the restitution of his property, than he 
waited upon him, presented the watch, and was greet- 
ed with an expression of grateful commendation, that 
amply rewarded his correct and liberal conduct. 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 333 



MRS. WRIGHT. 

At the commencement of the Revolution, Mrs. 
Wright, a native of Pennsylvania, and distinguished 
modeller of likenesses and figures of wax, v^^as exhibi- 
ting specimens of her skill in London. The King of 
Great Britain, pleased with her talents, gave her 
liberal encouragement, and finding her a great politi- 
cian, and enthusiastic Republican, would often enter 
into discussion relative to passing occurrences, and 
endeavour to refute her opinions, with regard to the 
probable issue of the war. The frankness with which 
she delivered her sentiments, seemed rather to please 
than to offend him ; which was a fortunate circum- 
stance, for when asked an opinion, she gave it without 
restraint, or the least regard to consequences. I re- 
member to have heard her say, that on one occasion, 
the monarch, irritated by some disaster to his troops, 
where he had prognosticated a triumph, exclaimed 
with warmth, " I wish, Mrs. Wright, you would tell 
me how it will be possible to check the silly infatuation 
of your countrymen, restore them to reason, and 
render them good and obedient subjects." *' I con- 
sider their submission to your Majesty's government, 
35 now altogether out of the question," replied Mrs. 
Wright. " Friends you may make them, but never 
subjects. For America, before a king can reign there, 
must become a wilderness, without other inhabitants 
than the beasts of the forest. The opponents of the 
decrees of your Parliament, rather than submit, would 
perish to a man ; but if the restoration of peace be 
seriously the object of your wishes, I am confident that 
it needs but the striking off of three heads to produce 
it." *' And whose are the three heads to be struck off, 
Madam." " O, Lord Northh^ and Lord George Ger- 



584 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

maine^s, beyond all question." " And whose the third 
head ?" " O, Sire, politeness forbids nie to name him. 
Your Majesty could never wish me to forget myself, 
and be guilty of an incivility." 

In her exhibition room, one group of figures parti- 
cularly attracted attention ; and by all who knew her 
sentiments, was believed to be a pointed hint at the 
results, which rnight follow the wild ambition of the 
Monarch. The busts of the King and Queen of 
Great Britain, were placed on a table, apparently in- 
tently gazing on a head, which a figure, an excellent 
representation of herself, was modelling in its lap. It 
was the head of the unfortunate Charles the First. 



DELIESSELINE. 

After the disastrous surprise of the cavalry com- 
manded by White, at Lenud's Ferry, an exploit was 
performed by Mr. Deliesseline, the present Sheriff of 
Charleston District, that entitles him to a very high 
degree of praise. Although but sixteen years of age 
when Charleston fell, inspired with ardent enthusiasm 
in the cause of his country, he determined to encounter 
every danger, and to submit to every privation, rather 
than yield to a foe who had already shown a fixed de- 
termination to rule with the iron hand of oppression ; 
and to avoid impending danger, had sought safety in 
concealment. On the appearance and first attack of 
the British, thirteen of the best horses of the corps 
surprised, broke through the ranks of the assailants, 
and gallopped off in a body ; but, being speedily fol- 
lowed by a party of the victorious dragoons, were 
taken, and conveyed to a neighbouring plantation, and 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. SS5 

there left in possession of an inhabitant named Des- 
champs, with strict injunction from the officer com- 
manding, not to suffer them to be removed, till he 
should return and reclaim them. Deschamps being a 
Whig in principle, paid little regard to the order ; and 
through the medium of a lady strongly attached to the 
American cause, information was immediately con- 
veyed to the retreat of Deliesseline; in the swamp on 
the opposite side of the Santee. The fair opportunity 
to serve his country was not neglected. Accompanied 
by a youth of his own age, named Dupre, the river 
was immediately passed, the stables of Deschamps 
assailed, and in spite of the resistance of the domestics, 
the horses seized, swam across the Santee, and deli- 
vered, with all their equipments, to Major Jamison, 
who, with several officers who had escaped the swords 
of the enemy, were assembled at Georgetown. The 
delight of these gentlemen, to see the finest of their 
cavalry thus unexpectedly restored, surpassed expres- 
sion. Major Jamison immediately tendered a certi- 
ficate to the full amount of their value ; but the 
patriotic spirit that had given birth to enterprise, spurn- 
ed the idea of being paid for its accomplishment. The 
youthful associates modestly declared, *' That their 
motives were altogether disinterested ; and that the 
happiness of having rendered a service to their coun- 
try, was a sufficient reward." 



CAPTAIN GEE. 

At the battle of Eutaw, when General Marion's 
Brigade was displaying in face of the enemy, Captain 
Gee, who commanded the front platoon, was shot 

49 



386 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

down, and supposed to be mortally wounded. The 
ball passed through the cock of a handsome hat, that 
he had recently procured, tearing the crown very much, 
and in its progress, the head also. He lay for a con- 
siderable time insensible ; the greater part of the day 
had passed without a favourable symptom ; when, sud- 
denly reviving, his first inquiry was after his beaver, 
which being brought him, a friend, at the same time, 
lamenting the mangled state of the head, he ex- 
claimed — " O, never think of the head ; time and the 
Doctor will put that to rights ; but it grieves me to 
think, that the rascals have ruined my hat for ever I" 



CAPTAIN ZEIGLER, OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

The conclusion of the war, though in the highest 
degree acceptable to a great majority of the citizens of 
the United States, proved far otherwise to the soldiers 
of fortune, who souglit not only reputation, but sup- 
port, by their swords. 

I remember full well, that when the army was re- 
viewed for the last time on James' Island, and 'dfeu de 
joie fired to celebrate the return of Peace, that Cap- 
tain Zeigler of the Pennsylvania Line, after saluting 
General Greene, significantly shrugging up his shoul- 
ders, and dropping the point of his sword, gave vent 
to an agony of tears. The review ended ; on being 
questioned as to the cause of his emotion, he feelingly 
said — " Although I am happy in the thought,^ that my 
fellow soldiers may now seek their homes, to enjoy 
the reward of their toils, and all the delights of domes- 
tic felicity, I cannot but remember, that I am left on 
the busy scene of life, a wanderer, without friends. 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 387 

and without employment ; and that, a soldier from in- 
fancy, I am now in the decline of life, compelled to 
seek a precarious subsistence in some new channel, 
where ignorance and inability may mar my fortunes, 
and condemn me to perpetual obscurity." I have 
given the purport of his speech in plain language — it 
certainly was not his usual style of speaking ; iq 
which, the mixture of German and English words, 
formed a dialect not easily to be comprehended. 

An excellent and intrepid soldier, he was particu- 
larly proud of the discipline and military appearance 
of the company he commanded. On one occasion? 
wdiile conducting a number of prisoners to a British 
out-post, addressing himself to his men, whom he was 
ambitious to show to the best advantage, he said, 
assuming an erect posture, and an air of great dignity, 
" Gentlemens, you are now to meet with civility the 
enemy of your country, and you must make dem re- 
gard you with profound and respectful admiration. 
Be please, den, to look great — to look graceful — to 
look like ^^ Devil — to look like me !" 



FICKLING. 

A CIRCUMSTANCE occurrcd during the encampment 
of General Lincoln at Purysburg, that from its sin- 
gularity deserves to be recorded. A soldier named 
Fickling, by the irregularity of his conduct, long excit- 
ed the indignation of his comrades, and, at length, 
from repeated efforts to desert to the enemy, had been 
brought to trial, and condemned to death. It hap- 
l)ened, that as he was led to execution, the Surgeon 
General of the army passed accidentally on his way to 



3^^ MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTE^. 

his quarters, which were at some distance off. Oa 
being tied up to the fatal tree, the removal of the lad- 
(Jer caused the rope to break, and the culprit fell to the 
ground. This circumstance, to a man of better cha- 
racter, might have proved of advantage ; but, being 
universally considered as a miscreant, from whom no 
good could ever be expected, a new rope was sought 
for, which Lieutenant Hamilton, the Adjutant of the 
1st Regiment, a stout and heavy man, essayed by 
every means, but without effect, to break. Fickling 
was then haltered, and again turned off, when, to the 
astonishment of the by-standers, the rope untwisted, 
and he fell a second time, uninjured, to the ground. 
A cry for mercy was now general throughout the 
ranks, which occasioned Major Ladson, Aid-de-Camp 
to General Lincoln, to gallop to Head-Quarters, to 
make a representation of facts, which were no sooner 
stated, than an immediate pardon was granted, ac- 
companied with an order, that he should, instanta- 
neously, be drumn>ed, with every mark of infamy, out 
of camp, and threatened with instant death if ever 
he should, at any future period, be found attempting 
to approach it. In the interim, the Surgeon General 
had established himself at his quarters, in a distant 
barn, little doubting but that the catastrophe was at an 
end, and Fickling quietly resting in his grave. Mid- 
night was at hand, and he was busily engaged in writ- 
ing, when hearing the approach of a footstep, he raised 
his eyes, and savy with astonishment, the figure of the 
man, who had, in his opinion, been executed, slowly 
and with haggard countenance approaching towards 
him. '' Ho\y ! how is this ?" exclaimed the Doctor. 
" Whence come you ? What do you want with me ? 
Were you not hanged this morning ?" ** Yes, Sir," 
replied the resuscitated man, " I am the wretch you 
saw going to the gallows, and who was hanged." 
*^ Keep your distance," said the Doctor; " approach 



MISCEIXAJ^EOUS ANECDOTES. 589 

me nojt xill you say, why coQie you here ? " Simply, 
Sir," said the supposed spectre, *' to solicit food. I 
am no ghost, Doctor. The rope broke twice while 
the executioner was doing his office, and the General 
thought proper to pardon me." '' If that be the case," 
rejoined the Doctor, " eat and welcome ; but I beg of 
you, in future, to have a little more consideration, and 
not intrude so unceremoniously into the apartment of 
one who had every right to suppose you an inhabitant 
of the tomb." 



HAPPY ESCAPE. 

I HOPE I shall be pardoned for relating an occurrence, 
which, though of no consequence to the public, was to 
myself of such momentous importance, as not be recol- 
lected, even at this distant day, without the keenest and 
most appalling sensations. To check the predatory ex- 
cursions of the British garrison, the light troops were so 
placed as to be ready, on the slightest alarm, to encoun- 
ter them. The enemy were not without energy, and 
did occasionally venture beyond their lines, but rarely 
with impunity; a partial sacrifice of men was the gene- 
ral result, frequently the entire loss of the party. They 
had their successes too, and on three different occa- 
sions, Armstrong and George Carrington of Lee's, and 
Kelty of Baylor's, were made prisoners. Information 
being communicated to Colonel Laurens, that a con- 
siderable detachment of cavalry had passed by Goose 
Creek Bridge, higher up the country than they had 
usually ventured, Rudolph^ s company of the Legion, 
and QuinauWs of the Delawares, were thrown across 
the Ashley, to await them in ambuscade. Quinault 



390 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

took post near Eagle Bridge, beloiv Dorchester; Ru- 
dolph above it, immediately opposite to the avenue 
leading to Cato's Plantation: I acted as his subaltern. 
It was at the close of the day, that information was 
communicated by a dragoon, that the enemy were cer- 
tainly above us, and retiring towards their lines. 
Rudolph, commanding the strictest silence, placed out 
three sentinels, each a little in advance of the other, with 
orders not to hail, but to retire cautiously before any 
party that should approach: then, addressing his men, 
he said, — *' I know you too well to think it necessary 
to recommend obedience and energy. When the first 
sentinel reaches us, whom I have ordered to retire as 
the enemy appears, a single clap of my hands shall be 
the signal to prepare. When the second, I shall again 
clap my hands, you must stand ready to level your 
pieces; and I trust you will do so with that delibera- 
tion, that, from your proximity to the road, must occa- 
sion great execution. W^hen I clap my hands the third 
time, give your fire, shout loudly, and rush forward 
with the bayonet." He had scarcely ceased speaking, 
when horsemen were distinctly heard crossing an old 
field, directly in our front, to Cato's house. To ascer- 
tain who tiiey were, Captain Rudolph quitted his com- 
inand, directing me, should the enemy appear, to act 
in strict conformity to the orders he had communicated. 
But a very few minutes had elapsed before the sen- 
tinel most advanced, retiring, proclaimed that he had 
distinctly heard the approach of cavalry. I clapped my 
hands, and every soldier was prepared. The second 
sentinel made his appearance also; from him commu- 
nication was unnecessary, the trampling of horses, 
slowly approaching, was heard by every one. I clap- 
ped my hands, and all were ready to level ; the third 
sentinel came in, and I now perceived, though indis- 
tinctly, from the darkness of the night, the head of the 
advancing troop. I candidly own that it was a moment 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 391 

of breathless expectation. It was about twenty yards 
distant, and I only waited till it should be immediately 
in our front, to give the signal to fire, when the exalted 
voice of Rudolph was heard, exclaiming, '* Stop, for 
God's sake stop ; do not fire, they are friends." He 
speedily reached me with the information, that the 
horsemen he had met at Cato's were two of our own 
regiment, who had been sent forward to seek him, to 
give information that Captain Armstrong, with the 
third troop of the Legion, had crossed at Bacon's 
Bridge, and to caution him against mistaking them for 
the enemy. Good God! what an escape was mine; it 
was Armstrong who was now immediately before me; 
and had not the interposition of Providence saved me, I 
should in an instant, though innocently, have done a 
deed that must have imbittered every hour of my 
future life. . 

- X 

While the Legion lay at Mr. Izard's Villa Planta- 
tion, near Bacon's Bridge, anxiously looking forward 
to the evacuation of the Capital, having long assidu- 
ously attended to the duties of camp, my superior 
officer. Captain Handy, advised me, as there was little 
appearance of an immediate call for active service, to 
visit a friend in the neighbourhood, and enjoy the 
luxury of a comfortable meal. 1 was not unthankful 
for the favour, and with great satisfaction rode to Mrs. 
Barnard Elliott's, a few miles distant, from whose 
hos43itality I was certain to meet a hearty welcome. 
Dinner was served up, and I was about to take, my 
place at table, when a dragoon gallopping up, presenteil 
a note from Captain Handy, requiring me, without 
delay, to join the regiment about to cross tiie Ashley, 
with orders to harass the rear of the retiring enemy, 
wlio were on the eve oT departure. 1 had no alterna- 
tive, and without a moment's hesitation, set out. Ar- 



592 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

riving at the Villa, I found that the regiment had 
already moved, and hastening forward, speedily joined 
it. Encamped for the night at Parker's, below Dor- 
chester, and expressing to Handy and Manning, my 
companions, the disappointment recently experienced, 
and the cravings of immediate appetite, a soldier, who 
had heard the conversation, with great civility, said, 
" While on our march. Perry Scott purchased of a 
negro, who was passing us, a turkey, which we have 
cooked. If you will partake of it. Lieutenant, I have 
a leg and a little rice, altogether at your service." It 
was not a moment to refuse. The leg and rice were 
produced, and my friends and self eat our scanty por- 
tion with great relish. We had halted at Parker's 
during the night, to give General Wayne an opportunity 
of crossing, with a large body of infantry, the Ashley 
Ferry ; and at early dawn moved forward to join him, 
but not before a second soldier had presented to Man- 
ning, the other leg of the turkey purchased by Scott. 
Soon after our junction with the infantry. General 
Wayne, escorted by the whole of the cavalry, moved 
forward to reconnoitre the enemy's position at Shu- 
brick's. 

The usual hour of refreshment having passed, with 
little appearance of relief from our Commissary, a 
third soldier advancing, said, " I hope Captain Handy 
will not refuse from me, a leg of the turkey which 
Scott purchased the last night on the road, as it is a 
particularly fine one : and I wish, with a tempting 
mess of rice, to offer it to him." The third leg 
was eaten ; and, to shorten my story, for three 
succeeding meals, still another, and another leg of 
Scott's purchased turkey were presented. The mystery 
was soon explained. A messenger, with dispatches 
from Head Quarters to General Wayne, brought an 
order also, that the knapsacks of the troops should be 
strictly examined, as Mr. John Waring's poultry-house 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 393 

had been robbed, and thirty turkeys carried off, about 
the time of our removal from Izard's. Search was 
accordingly made, but not a feather found that could 
justify suspicion of criminality in any Legionary Sol- 
dier. A detachment of Pennsylvanians were but a 
little removed from the spot, and as they enjoyed high 
reputation for their partiality to delicate fare, this un- 
ceremonious transfer of property, was generally attri- 
buted to them, 

A story is recorded in testimony of the ready wit of 
a soldier of that Line, to this effect. A turkey-cock 
being found in his knapsack, and inquiry made as to 
the right of possession, he declared, " that in his gob- 
bling the saucy bird had so often called him tory^ tory, 
tory, that he had killed him to prevent further insult." 
*' But," said the inquirmg officer, *' here is a hen also 
in your knapsack ; she does not gobble — why was she 
brought." *' Oh, an please your honour, as an evi- 
dence. She heard the insult, and if she had not been 
smothered by her close confinement, might have told 
you how much I bore, before I could persuade myself 
to do the rascal an injury." 



GENERAL WASHINGTON. 

A FRIEND who assured me that his information was 
derived from the best authority, related an Anecdote 
highly characteristic of the humanity and discretion of 
the good and great Washington. Stopping for refresh- 
ment at a house in Jersey, in which a wounded officer 
lay, who was sensibly agitated by the slightest noise, 
he constantly spoke in an undertone of voice ; and at 
table, in every movement, evinced marked considera- 

^0 



394 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

tion for the sufferer. Retiring to another apartment 
at the conclusion of the meal, the gentlemen of his 
family, unrestrained by his presence, were less par- 
ticular. They spoke in higher tones ; when the Gen- 
eral, who heard them with uneasiness, immediately 
returning, opened the door with great caution, and 
walking on tip toe to the extremity of the apartment^ 
took a book from the mantlepiece, and without utter- 
ing a syllable, again retired. The hint was not lost — 
respectful silence was the immediate consequence. 



Dr. M*Caula, some time since Intendant of Charles- 
ton, who served with distinction during the war of the 
Revolution, has frequently declared, that after the sur- 
render of York-Town, while the Continental Troops 
were preparing to receive the British, who were to 
march forth from the garrison, and deliver up their 
arms, that he heard the Commander in Chief say, (ad- 
dressing himself to the division of the army to which 
he was attached) " My brave fellows, let no sensation 
of satisfaction for the triumphs you have gained, induce 
you to insult your fallen enemy — let no shouting, no 
clamourous huzzaing increase their mortification. It 
is sufficient satisfaction to us, that we witness their 
humiliation. Posterity will huzza for us !" 



\ OLD LYDICK. 



;-\ 



Shortly after his election to the presidency of the 
United States, General Washington, his lady, and 
Secretary, Major Jackson, on their way from the seat 
of Government to Mount Vernon, stopped for the 
night at Chester. The President had scarcely arrived, 
and expressed a wish not to be disturbed, when a mes- 
sage was brought, that an old gentleman, once honour- 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 395 

€(1 with his favour and protection, anxiously requested 
permission to pay his respects, adding, that his name 
was Lydlch " Let him enter, by all means," said 
General Washington, *' he is the man, Major Jackson, 
who, at the hazard of his life, entered New- York, 
while in possession of the enemy, for the purpose of 
. distributing among the German troops, proclamations, 
inviting them to our standard ; and who, at an after 
period, superintended for many years our baking esta- 
blishment with zeal and diligence." As the old man 
entered, the General, taking him kindly by the hand, 
said, '' My worthy friend, I am rejoiced to see you, 
and truly happy to express my thanks to a man to 
whom I feel myself under great obligation. You ever 
served you country with exemplary fidelity, and her 
warmest gratitude is richly your due." *' Such praise 
from my beloved commander," replied Lydick, *' is 
high reward. I shall now go to my grave in peace, 
since it has been my happiness, once again, to meet 
and pay my duty to your Excellency. I have but one 
regret. You are childless ! You leave your country 
no representative of your virtues ! But you are not 
as old as Abraham ; and she^ (gently touching the 
shoulder of Mrs. Washington) as old as Sarah ; and 
through the favour of the Almighty, I hope that a son 
may still be born to bless us." The General, with a 
smile, thanked him for his good wishes, and the old 
man retired, praying, that fruitfulness might crown the 
last years of their existence with perfect felicity. 



596 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 



MICHAEL DOCHERTY. 

The character of the Soldier of Fortune, so inimita- 
bly well drawn, and which constitutes the chief uierit 
of the popular tale, *' A Legend of Montrose," has 
been considered altogether imaginary. The careless 
facility with which he changed sides, and embraced 
opposite principles, regarded as the sportive invention 
of the author's brain. I will briefly relate the adven- 
tures of a sentinel in the Continental service, as re- 
ceived from his own lips, and leave it to my readers to 
determine whether the character of Dalgetty, " though 
it never did, might not have existed." 

At the moment of retreat, on the 12th of May, 1782, 
when Colonel Laurens, commanding the Light Troops 
of General Greene's army, beat up the quarters of the 
enemy near Accabee, Michael Docherty, a distin- 
guished soldier of the Delawares, said to a comrade 
who was near, — *' By Jasus, it does my heart good to 
think that little blood has been spilt this day, any how, 
and that we are likely to see the close of it without a 
fight." No notice was taken of his speech at the time, 
but meeting him shortly after in camp, I inquired, 
** how he, who was so much applauded for uncommon 
gallantry, should have expressed so great delight on 
finding the enemy indisposed for action." *' And who, 
besides myself, had a better right to be pleased, I 
wonder," said Docherty. *' Wounds and captivity 
have no charms for me, and Michael has never yet 
fought, but, as bad luck would have it, both have been 
his portion. When 1 give you a little piece of the 
history of my past life, you will give me credit for my 
wish to be careful of the part that is to come. I was 
unluckly from the jump. At the battle of Brandy wine, 
acting as Sergeant of a company in the Delaware Re- 



iMfSCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 397 

giment, my Captain killed, and Lieutenant absenting 
himself from the field for the greater safety of his 
mother's son, I fought with desperation till our ammu- 
nition was expended, and my comrades being com- 
pelled to retire, I was left helpless and wotmded on 
the ground, and fell into the hands of the enemy. Con- 
finement was never agreeable to me. I could npver 
be aisy within the walls of a prison. A recruiting 
Sergeant of the British, who was at home in his busi- 
ness, and up to all manner of cajolery, by dint of per- 
petual blarny, gained my good will, slipped the King's 
bounty into my hand, which I pocketed, and entered a 
volunteer into the 17th Regiment. Stoney Point was 
our station, and I thought myself snugly out of harm's 
way, when one ugly night, when I did not even dream 
of such an accident, the post was carried at the 
point of the bayonet, and an unlucky thrust laid me 
prostrate on the earth. It was a great consolation, 
however, that although this was rather rough treat- 
ment from the hand of a friend, that the Old Dela- 
wares were covered with glory, and that as their 
prisoner, I was sure to meet the kindest attention. M}^ 
wound once cured, and white-washed of my sins, my 
ancient comrades received me with kindness; and light 
of heart, and hoping to gain any quantity of laurels in 
the South, 1 marched forward with the Regiment, as a 
part of the command destined to recover the Carolinas 
and Georgia. The bloody battle of Camden, fought 
on the 16th of August, bad luck to the day, brought 
me once again into trouble. Our Regiment was cut 
up root and branch, and poor Pilgarlic, my unfortunate 
self, wounded and made prisoner. My prejudices 
against a jail I have frankly told, and being pretty con- 
fident that I should not a whit better relish a lodging 
in the inside of a prison-ship, I once again suffered 
myself to be persuaded, and listed in the inl'antry of 
Tarleton's Legion. O, botheration, what a mistake. 



398 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

I never before had kept such bad company; as a maii 
of honour, I was out of my i/emen^, and should certainly 
have given them le^ bail, but that 1 had no time to 
brood over my misfortunes, for the battle of the Cow- 
pens quickly following;, Howard and Old Kirk wood 
gave us the bayonet so handsomely, that we were taken 
one and all, and I should have escaped unhurt, had 
not a dragoon of Washington's added a scratch or two 
to the account already scored on my unfortunate car- 
cass. As to all the miseries that I have since endured, 
afflicted with a scarcity of every thing but appetite and 
musquitoes, I say nothing about them. My love for 
my country gives me courage to support that, and a 
great deal more when it comes. I love my comrades, 
and tbey love Docherty. Exchanging kindnesses, we 
give care to the dogs ; but surely you will not be sur- 
prised, after all that I have said, that I feel some 
qualms at the thought of battle, since, take whatever 
side I will, I am always sure to find it the wrong one> 



COLONEL MENZIES. 

Some time previous to the evacuation of Cbarles- 
ton. Colonel Menzies of the Pennsylvania Line, re- 
ceiving a letter from a Hessian officer within the 
garrison, who had once been a prisoner, and treated by 
him with kindness, expressing an earnest desire to show 
his gratitude, by executing any commission with which 
be would please to honour him. Colonel Menzies re- 
plied to it, requesting him to send him twelve dozen 
Cigars ; but, being a German by birth, and little ac- 
customed to express himself in English, he was not 
very accurate in his orthography, and wrote Sizars. 
Twelve dozen pair of Scissors were accordingly sent 



MISCELLANEOUS AxNECDOTES. 399 

him, which, for a time, occasioned much mirth in 
the camp, at the Colonel's expense ; but no man knew 
better how to profit from the mistake. Money was 
not, at the period, in circulation ; and by the aid of his 
runner, distributing his Scissors over the country, in 
exchange for poultry, Colonel Menzies lived lux- 
uriously, while the fare of his brother officers was a 
scanty pittance of famished beef, bull-frogs from ponds, 
and crayfish from the neighbouring ditches. 



The want of active employment was, at this time, 
extremely prejudicial to the service ; for, while it en- 
gendered discontent among the men, it gave birth to 
perpetual feuds among the officers. Having little to 
apprehend from the exertions of the enemy, confined 
within the narrow limits of the garrison of Charles- 
ton, indolence gave birth to peevishness and discontent, 
and bile was generated to an overflow. A look, a 
smile, and even the slightest inuendo, though uttered 
without the most distant idea of giving offence, was 
too frequently the prelude to a call to the field. The 
loss of some valuable lives, and infliction of many 
wounds, was the consequence. I will mention but 
one instance of the trivial causes that gave birth to 
intemperate hostility. Colonel Menzies, boasting of 
the antiquity of his family with true German pom- 
posity, Lieutenant Colonel Jack Steward of Mary- 
land, laughingly observed, " That it was impossible 
for him to entertain a doubt upon the subject, since he 
remembered in the reading of his boyish days, to have 
formed an acquaintance with a Jew of celebrity, one 
Mordecai Menzies, the confidential and bosom friend 
of the law giver Moses." This jeu d^esprit produced 
a duel, and nothing but the interposition of cooler 
heads (the first shots being exchanged without mis- 
chief) prevented it from ending fatally. 



400 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES, 



YANKEE CAPTAIN. 

Till the last hour that the British kept possession 
of New-York, independent of Cusiom-House forms, 
they obliged the Captains of American vessels, bring- 
ing in articles for sale, to dance attendance, in many 
instances, for days together, seeking passports to pre- 
vent detention by the guard-ships. An unfortunate 
Yankee, who had sold his notions^ and was impatient 
to depart, having been repeatedly put off with frivolous 
excuses, and bid to '* call again," indignantly exclaim- 
ed, " Well, I vow, for a beaten people, you are the 
most saucy that I ever met with." "Make out that 
fellow's passport immediately," said the superinten- 
dant to an officiating clerk, " and get rid of him." 



EXCHANGE OF SHELLS. 

The enmity of the contending armies, during the 
siege of Charleston, was not confined to open hostility, 
but manifested itself in the indulgence of irony, too 
pointed not to give increase to mutual animosity. To- 
wards the conclusion of it, the British believing that 
that the fare of the garrison was both indifferent and 
scanty, a thirteen-inch shell was thrown from their 
lines, which passing immediately over the Horn Work, 
manned by a detachment of the Ancient Battalion of 
Artillery of Charleston, fell into a morass immediately 
in the rear, without exploding. An officer of that 
corps who saw it lodge, approaching it after some 
time, perceived a folded paper attached to it, directed 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 401 

^* To the Yankee Officers in Charleston." The con- 
tents of which expressed a wish, '* That in their 
known state of starvation, they would accept from a 
compassionate enemy, a supply of the necessaries they 
most delighted in." The shell was filled with rice 
and molasses. To return the compliment, a shell was 
immediately filled with hogslard and brimstone, and 
thrown into the British works, accompanied by a note, 
expressing thanks for the present received, and begging 
that the articles returned by a considerate enemy, might 
be appropriated to the use of the Scotch gentlemen in 
the camp, to whom, as they were always of conse- 
quence, they might now prove peculiarly acceptable. 
It was understood after the siege, that the note was 
received, but not with that good humour that might 
have been expected, had it been considered as tijeu 
d"^ esprit resulting from justifiable retaliation. 



SmGlJLAll INSTANCE OF STERN REPUBLICAN SITB- 
MISSION TO MISFORTUNE. 

The sternness of Republican principles may cei> 
tainly be carried to extremity. I received from Gen- 
eral Barnwell, what has appeared to me a striking 
instance of it. Hastening to return to his military 
duties, after his exchange, accompanied by his brothers 
Edward and Robert, his nephew William Elliott, and 
Aid-de-Camp John B. Holmes, they overtook in a 
dreary and desolate pine barren, in North Carolina, 
Dr. George Bellinger, riding on a miserable broken 
down tackey, a blanket serving him as a saddle, and 
sugar-loaf strings as a bridle, to direct his motions. 
\n invitation was immediately given him to partake ®f 

51 



402 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES* 

the refreshment, which the more fortunate group cai* 
ried with them, and accepted. Merrily passed the 
entprtainment. At the conclusion of it, General Barn- 
well rommisserating the dej)lorable situation of a gen- 
tleman of the most decided Whig principles, said to 
Mr. Elliott, " I cannot bear the idea, that a staunch 
Patriot, pressing forward to resume a station of utility 
in the service of his country, should be thus ill pro- 
vided, while your servant is well mounted, and riding 
at his ease. An exchange is necessary for your credit, 
and for the sake of humanity." *' My wishes," re- 
plied Mr. Elliott, " accord with your own. Come, 
Doctor," continued he, " take my servant's horse, and 
join our party. He will mount your's, and in duo 
time rejoin us." " I have partaken of your fare," 
said Bellinger, " with thankfulness ; but can never 
accept a favour, that I candidly confess, 1 should not 
have sufficient generosity to return. I might have 
spared you liquor and food, had you been in my place, 
and I in yours; but, further than that, I could not have 
imitated the noble effort of generous ft^eling exhibited.' 
Republican independency, while it bids me admire 
your liberal offer, prevents me from profiting by it; 
therefore, pass on. I shall, in duo season, be with 
vou." 



LEVINGSTONE. 

A SOLDIER of General Marion's Brigade, named 
Levingstone, an Irishman by birth, meeting with an 
armed party, on a night profoundly dark, suddenly 
found a horseman's pistol applied to his breast, and 
heard the imperious command, — " Declare, install- 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 403 

taneously, to- what party you belong, or you are a 
dead man." The situation being such as to render it 
highly probable that it might be a British party, he very 
calmly replied, *' I think, Sir, it would be a little more 
in the way of civility if you were to drop a hint, just 
to let me know which side of the question you are 
pleased to favour." " No jesting," replied the speaker, 
** declare your principles, or die." *' Then, by Jasus," 
rejoined Levingstone, ** I will not die with a lie in my 
mouth. American, to extremity, you spalpeen, so do 
your worst, and be damn'd to you." " You are an 
honest fellow," said the inquirer, " we are friends, and 
I rejoice to meet a man faithful as you are to the 
cause of our country." 



LOASTER. 

An instance of intrepidity in an individual belonging 
to the Brigade commanded by General Sumter, de- 
serves to be recorded. A detachment of mounted 
militia, had been sent out by the General to watch the 
movements of the enemy, hastening, under the com- 
mand of Lord Rawdon, to the relief of Ninety-Six, and 
came up with their rear guard at a place called the 
Juniper Springs, about fifteen miles distant from 
Granby. The British cavalry, who composed it, were 
of much superior force, and being in every respect bet- 
ter prepared for action, quickly disconcerted the Ame- 
rican detachment, and put them to flight. A poor 
German, named Loaster, belonging to the American 
party, mounted on a sorry poney, with a rope bridle, 
and corresponding equipments, with no other arms 
than a musket, which he had already fired off, was 



404 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

assailed by a British dragoon, who aimed several des- 
perate blows at him with his sabre, which were warded 
off with extraordinary dexterity, Loaster calling out 
after every parry, *' Huzza for America." While in 
this perilous situation, a Mr. Fitzpatrick, determining, 
if possible, to save him, rode up, and with the butt end 
of his pistol, which had been previously discharged, 
struck the dragoon so violent a blow in the face as to 
fell him to the ground. Loaster, thus happily rescued, 
rode off and escaped, vowing most earnestly never 
again to go into action without a cutting iron, his 
m»]sket being nearly severed in two, in five different 
places. 



GEORGE PETRIE, 

Where generous interposition preserves the life of au^ 
intrepid enemy, it ought not to be passed over unnoticed. 
At the battle of Stono, though nearly annihilated by the 
charge made upon them by the American Light Infan- 
try, led on by Colonel Henderson and Major Pinckney, 
no troops could have behaved better, or fought with 
greater obstinacy, than the detachment of the 71st 
British Regiment, that sallied from their line of Re- 
doubts to oppose them. A Captain Campbell was 
particularly distinguished, by his activity and daring 
courage, but ultimately subdued by the severity of his 
wounds, and loss of blood ; he was leaning against a 
tree, awaiting the result of the contest, when a Con- 
tinental soldier, rasing his piece, was about to inflict 
an exterminating thrust with the bayonet, had he not 
hf^en prevented by Lieutenant George Petrie, of the 
South- Carolina Line, who, upbraiding him for a want 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 405 

of humanity to an unresisting and fainting foe, arrested 
his arm, and saved his gallant enemy. Colonel Hen- 
derson, who had seen the whole transaction, at this 
moment rode up, and exclaiming, " That is too brave 
a fellow to die," committed him to the care of the 
very soldier who would have destroyed him, with a 
strict injunction to guard him, at the peril of his life, 
from injury. 



REMARKABLE INCIDENT. 

A VERY singular occurrence took place during the 
siege of Augusta, to the truth of which many living 
witnesses can give testimony. I mention my friend, 
Dr. Irvine, as one who was present when it happened. 
Two outlaws, distinguished by the enormity of their 
offences, were taken and condemned to die. An exe- 
cutioner could not be found. Every soldier in the 
army shrunk with abhorrence from the office. It was 
at length determined that the one deemed the least 
guilty should receive a pardon, on the condition of 
serving as hangman, while his companion paid the 
penalty of his crimes. The terms were accepted, and 
the most atrocious culprit turned off. He, however, 
who was pardoned, had little time for triumph, for his 
part was scarcely performed before a four pound shot, 
from the enemy's battery, struck him on the breast, and 
laid him dead at the side of the man who had been 
executed. 



40G MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 



AN UNINVITED GUEST. 

During the siege of York-Town Baron Steuben, 
giviiii^ a breakfast to several of the Field Officers of 
the army, in the course of the entertainment, while 
festivity was at its height, and in anticipation of the 
honours which awaited them, mirth and good humour 
abounded, a shell from the enemy fell into the centre 
of the circle formed by his guests. There was no time 
for retreat; to fall prostrate on the earth afforded the 
only chance of escape; every individual stretched him- 
self at his length ; the shell burst with tremendous 
explosion, covering the whole party with mud and 
dirt, which rather proved a source of merriment, than 
serious concern, since none of the party sustained any 
further inconvenience. 



IMPORTANT SERVICE OF MAJOR EDMUND HYRNE.' 

In the spring of the year 1781, General Greene, 
commisserating the wretched situation of the Exiles at 
St. Augustine, and of the inflexible patriots confined 
in the Provost and Prison-ships ; anxious too to relieve, 
and profit by the services of the Continental troops 
confined in Charleston, sent his Aid-de-Camp, Major 
Edmund Hyrne, to the city, with the hope of accom- 
plishing an equitable exchange. A man better qualified 
for so important a commission, could not have been 
selected. He was liberal in all his ideas ; and where 
reason would justify concession, willing to yield and 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 40? 

conciliate; but against the encroachments of arrogance 
and injustice, firm as adamant. 

The British commanders, well apprized of the 
talents and influence of many of the individuals within 
their power, showed little disposition to accede to the 
terms proposed by the American negotiator; and on 
their part offered such, as it was altogether impossible 
for him to accept. Under these circumstances. Major 
Hyrne, who was in the constant habit of visiting the 
Prison-Ships, informed the unfortunates in captivity, 
"that his efforts to relieve them, would, according to 
appearances, prove altogether abortive ; and that they 
must endeavour to support with patience and fortitude, 
the evils they were destined to endure." " But one 
hope remains," he added, "of bringing the business 
to a happy conclusion ; and the test shall be made 
without delay." 

Returning to his quarters, a note was sent to every 
British officer enjoying the benefit of a parole, (of 
whom there were, at that time, a very considerable 
number within the garrison) desiring that preparation 
should be made to accompany him, at an early day, to 
the country, as every effort to accomplish an exchange 
had proved fruitless ; and it could not be expected, that 
liberty should be longer granted to them, while men of 
the first character and highest respectability in the 
State, were subjected to all the miseries and inconve- 
niences of the most rigourous confinement. 

The effect of this notice was instantaneously per- 
ceptible. The doors of the Commandant were be- 
sieged by petitioners, (many of high rank and powerful 
connexions) soliciting him to relinquish his opinions ; 
and by relaxing, in due season, his severity, save 
them from the horrors and destruction which they 
deemed inevitable, should they be compelled, in the 
month of June, to remove into the sickly interior coun- 
try. Their clamour? and reiterated remonstrance'? 



408 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

could not be resisted — the dictates of policy yielded 
before them. The terms of exchange were sj)eedily 
adjusted, and the gratified prisoners restored to liberty 
and their country. 



LIEUTENANT SAMUEL SELDON, 

OF VIRGINIA. 

This gallant officer commanded one of the advanced 
parties, when General Greene, after having invested 
the post at Ninety-Six for several weeks, determined 
to attempt its reduction by assault. At the signal ap- 
pointed to attack, Seldon entered the ditch of the 
principal work ; and while his right arm was raised 
with the intention of drawing down a sand-bag from 
the top of the parapet, a ball entering his wrist, shat- 
tered the bone of the limb nearly to the shoulder* 
For so severe a wound, the only remedy was amputa- 
tion. It is well known, that on such occasions, the 
operating Surgeon requires the assistance of several 
persons to hold the patient^s limb, and to support him. 
To this regulation Seldon would not submit. It was 
his right arm he was about to lose. He sustained it 
with his left during the operation, his eyes fixed 
steadily on it ; nor uttered a word, till the saw reached 
the marrow, when in a composed tone and manner, 
he said, *' 1 pray you, Doctor, be quick." When the 
business was completed, he feelingly exclaimed, " f 
am sorry that it is my right arm ; if it had been my 
left, the occasion would have caused, me to glory in 
the loss." He recovered and lived many years after- 
wards, the object of affection and esteem to all who 
had the good lor tune to know him. 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 409 



INSTANCE OF TARLETON'S SEVERITY. 

The advancement of a powerful and victorious 
army into the interior country, immediately subsequent 
to the fall of Charleston, caused many of the inhabi- 
tants, rather than witness the desolation of their pro- 
perty, to take protections. In the neighbourhood of 
Rocky Mount a young man named Stroud did so, but 
speedily repenting the dereliction of his duty to his 
country, resumed his arms in her defence. In a ren- 
counter with Tarleton, which happened immediately 
after, he was taken and instantaneously, without form 
of trial, hung up, in terrorem, on the public road, with 
a label attached to his back, proclaiming, — " Such 
shall be the fate of the man who presumes to cut him 
down." The body was thus exposed for upwards of 
three weeks, when an affectionate sister ventured out, 
performed the pious act, and gave the body interment. 



ADDITIONAL INSTANCES OF SEVERITY. 

From the same neighbourhood of Rocky Mount, an 
almost beardless youth, of the name of Wade, was 
seduced to enrol himself in the ranks of Tarleton's 
Legion. Repentance quickly followed his departure 
from duty, and he deserted with the hope of rejoining 
his family and friends. Fate forbade it. He was taken, 
tried, and sentenced to receive a thousand lashes, I 
need scarcely relate the sequel ! He expired under 
the infliction of the punishment ! 



The Anecdote which follows, was presented by a 
gentleman, intimately acquainted with Colonel For- 
rest, and as related bv him, giving a true picture of 



410 MISCELLANIlOUS aisjecdotes. 

the times, appears worthy to be recorded. *' At the 
period of the war, when our Treasury was most ex- 
hausted, the men of my regiment became so refrac- 
tory from the want of pay, that I was compelled to 
resort to every shift and stratagem to keep them in 
necessary subordination. Necessity at last obliged 
me to enter into a compromise with them. I pledged 
myself, that if they would only promise to conduct 
themselves with propriety, and preserve the discipline 
essential to the well being of the army, during my 
absence, that I would personally apply to the Treasury, 
forcibly represent their grievances, and exert every 
energy to obtain the justice they required. My pro- 
posal was acceded to, and I quitted the regiment. 
Having, at the period, many friends in the Paymaster's 
Dei)artment, my representations were attended to, and 
through their kind attention I obtained a month's pay, 
according to the tenor of my request. Arriving in camp, 
I ordered my Regiment to be paraded, and candidly 
submitted to them the result of my negotiation. The 
entire corps expressed content and satisfaction, save 
only one individual, a son of Erin, who appeared to 
exhibit decided marks of extreme discontent. Dissa- 
tisfied with his conduct, and more highly irritated by 
his surly looks, I approached, and upbraiding him for 
his unreasonable behaviour, asked his motive tor show- 
ing such signs of discontent, while the rest of the 
Regiment, his comi)anion in arms, appeared cheerful 
and well pleased on the occasion. He sarcastically 
replied, — " Upon my salvation, my Colonel, and the 
honour of a true soldier, which I will be bound to say 
you have ever found me to be, I had not the least idea 
of being dissatisfied with your happy negotiation; God 
bless you, my jewel, for I am sure you have done as 
much for us, and more than any other, besides yourself, 
could have done any how; but I believe I was only 
sorry, a little, when 1 looked so highly provoked, that 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 411 

your honour had not brought me an old razor instead 
of my rnonWspay^ that I mig;ht scrape my beard with, 
just to appear a little dacent on parade." 



How little the unfortunates, who had accepted Bri- 
tish protections, were to be depended upon, with what 
apathy they offered up their petitions to heaven for the 
prosperity of their Sovereign, and success of his arms, 
may be judged of from an incident that occurred in the 
Parish Church of St. James', Goose Creek. The 
Rev. Mr. Ellington, in the couse of service, praying, 
" That it may please thee to bless and preserve his 
most gracious Majesty, our Sovereign Lord King 
George," a dead silence ensued, and instead of the 
usual response, " We beseech thee to hear us, good 
Lord," a murmuring voice pronounced, " Good Lord, 
deliver us." 



While the administration of Great Britain were 
carrying on the war with ruthless severity, it appears 
to have been a constant object with them, to cherish 
the acknowledged prejudices of the Sovereign against 
his American subjects. That their effort was crowned 
with success, cannot be doubted, for such was the ab- 
horrence of the King to every invention deemed Ame- 
rican, that he ordered the sharp conductors recom- 
mended by Dr. Franklin, to be removed from Buck- 
ingham House, and blunt ones to be substituted in their 
place. On this occasion the following pointed Epigram 
appeared in one of the morning prints. 

'^ While you, great George, for knowledge hunt, 

And sharp conductors change for blunt, 

The nation 's out of joint ; 

Franklin a wiser scheme pursues, 

And all your thunder heedless views, 

By sticking to the point." 



412 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

But in genuine point, and happy allusion to the pro- 
pensities of the monarch, no lines were offered to the 
public more severe than those which follow : 

"In eastern kingdoms, of the weakest man, 

With idiot Councils, rules the grave Divan, 

Nor there alone of late such wonders rest, 

But reach the confines of the enlightened west ; 

Where some dull leader, fixed, by partial fate, 

Now tarns a button — now overturns a State. 

Now for his boys a whistle carves in wood, 

Or signs a warrant for a nation's blood. 

The pi )ce of Kings, thus toymens' pupils take, 

And wield the sceptre they were born to make. 

Turn, cruel Pinchbeck,* lengthen yet thy score, 

And turn thy Monarch at one corkscrew more ; 

Lest England's sons, a game like thine should play,. 

Nor keep the workmen thou hast turned away." 

Even within the British garrisons, in the presence of 
the Commander in Chief, jests were indulged in, such 
as plainly evinced how faint the hope of a successful 
issue of the war. 

During an interval of dancing, at a splendid ball 
given by the officers of the army, to the ladies of New- 
York. Sir Henry Clinton, previously engaged in con- 
versation with Miss Franks, called out to the musicians, 
" Give us, Britons strike home." " The Commander 
in Chief has made a mistake," exclaimed the lady ; 
" he meant to say, Britons — go home.'^'^ 



MISS FRANKS. 

This intelligent and highly accomplisiied lady, in 
throwing the pointed shafts of her wit, spared neither 
friend or foe. Having mentioned the " palpable hit,'' 

* Pinchbeck was a toyman, and manufacturer of every species of knick 
knack. 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 41S 

given to Sir Henry Clinton, it is hut fair to show, how 
keen her irony when aimed against the foes of Bri- 
tain. At the Mischianza, given at Philadelphia by the 
officers of the British army to Sir William Howe, pre- 
viously to his relinquishment of command, Miss Franks 
appeared as one of the Princesses, in supporting whose 
claims to superior beauty and accomplishment, the 
assembled Knights were to contend at a Tournament 
exhibited. The evacuation of the city immediately 
following. Miss Franks remained behind. Lieutenant 
Colonel Jack Steward of Maryland, whose previous 
intimacy with her, could alone justify the familiarity of 
his conduct, dressed out in a handsome suit of scarlet, 
taking an early occasion to pay his compliments, said 
to her in the true spirit of gallantry, " I have adopted 
your colours, my Princess, the better to secure a cour- 
teous reception — deign to smile on a true Knight. To 
this speech Miss Franks made no reply ; but turning 
to the company who surrounded her, exclaimed — ■ 
'' How the Ass glories in the Lion's skin." 

Nor was this the only rub experienced by the Lieu- 
tenant Colonel. While the company were enjoying 
themselves in lively conversation, their mirth was in- 
terrupted by loud clamours from the street, which 
occasioned them to hasten to the windows, the better 
to ascertain the cause. High head-dresses were then 
the reigning fashion among the British belles. A fe- 
male appeared on the street, surrounded by a crowd of 
idlers, ragged in her apparel, and bare-foot, but adorned 
with a towring head-dress in the extreme of the mode. 
Miss Franks readily perceived the intent of this tumul- 
tuous visit ; and on the Lieutenant Colonel's observing, 
that the lady was equipped altogether in the English 
fashion, replied, " Not altogether^ Colonel ; for though 
the style of her head is British, her shoes and stock- 
ings are in the genuine Continental fashion.'''^ 



414 MILCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

There were very few men qualified to enter the lists 
with this intelligent lady — for her information was ex- 
tensive, and she had wit at will. She did, however, 
on one occasion, meet a superior, and appeared bereft 
of her brilliancy of talent, by receiving with anger, 
what was only intended as a sally to excite merriment. 
I allude to her correspondence with General Charles 
Lee, whose letter is but little known, and certainly 
possesses a stamp of humour that renders it worthy 
to be preserved. 

/^ GENERAL LEE's LETTER TO MISS FRANKS. 

" Madam, 

" When an officer of the respectable rank I bear, is grossly 
traduced and calumniated, it is incumbent on him to clear up the 
affair to the world, with as little delay as possible. The spirit of 
defamation and calumny (I am sorry to say it) is grown to a pro- 
digious and intolerable height on this Continent. If you had accused 
me of a design to procrastinate the war, or of holding treasonable 
correspondence with the enemy, I could have borne it : this I am 
used to ; and this happened to the great Fabius Maximus. If you 
had accused me of getting drunk, as often as I could get liquor, as 
two Alexanders the Great have been charged with the vice, I should 
perhaps have sat patient under the imputation ; or even if you had 
given the plainest hints, that I had stolen the soldiers shirts, this I 
could liave put up with, as the great Duke of Marlborough would 
have been an example : or if 3^ou had contented yourself with assert- 
ing that I was so abominable a sloven, as never to part with my shirt, 
until my shirt parted with me, the anecdotes of my illustrious name- 
sake of Sweden* would have administered some comfort to me. But 
the calumny you have, in the fertility of your malicious wit, chosen 
to invent, is of so new, so unprecedented, and so hellish a kind, as 
would make Job himself swear like a Virginia Colonel. 

^^ Is it possible that the celebrated Miss FRANKS,t a lady who has 
had every human and Divine advantage, who has read, (or at least 

"* Charles 12th- t The young lady was a JewesSs 



miSCELLANEOUS ANECDOTCS. 415 

might have read) in the originals, the New and Old Testaments^ 
(though I am afraid she too seldom looks even into the translations) 
I say, is it possible that Miss Franks, with every human and Divine 
advantage, who might, and ought to have read these two good books, 
which (an old Welch nurse, whose uncle was reckoned the best 
preacher in Merionethshire, assured me) enjoin charity, and denounce 
vengeance against slander and evil speaking ; is it possible, I again 
repeat it, that Miss Franks should, in the face of day, carry her ma- 
lignity so far, in the presence of three most respectable personages ; 
(one of the oldest religion in the world, one of the newest, for he is a 
New-Light Man, and the other, most probably, of no religion at all, 
as he is an English sailor) but I demand it again and again, is it pos- 
sible that Miss Fr.\nks should assert it, in the presence of these re- 
spectable personages, ^ that I wore green breeches patched with 
leather ?' To convict you, therefore, of the falsehood of this most 
diabolical slander, to put you to eternal silence, (if you are not past all 
grace) and to cover you with a much larger patch of infamy than you 
have wantonly endeavoured to fix on my breeches, I have thought 
proper, by the advice of three very grave friends, (lawyers and mem- 
bers of Congress, of course excellent judges of delicate points of 
honour) to send you the said breeches, and with the consciousness of 
truth on my side, to submit them to the most severe inspection and 
scrutiny of you, and all those who may have entered into this wicked 
cabal, against my honour and reputation. I say I dare you, and 
your whole junto, to your worst : turn them, examine them inside and 
outside, and if you find them to be green breeches patched with 
leather, and not actually legitimate Sherry Vallies,* such as his Ma- 
jesty of Poland wears, (who, let me tell you, is a man who has made 
more fashions than all your knights of the Mischianzat put together, 
notwithstanding their beauties) I repeat it, (though I am almost out 
of breath with repetitions and parenthesis) that if those are proved to 
be patched green breeches, and not legitimate Sherry Vallies, (which 
a man of the first hon ton might be proud of) I will submit in silence 
to all the scurrility which I have no doubt you and your abettors are 

* A kind of long breeches, reaching to the ancle, with a broad stripe of 
leather on the inside of the thigh, for the conveniency of riding. 

t An entertainment given to General Howe, just before his departure for Eu- 
rope, at which were introduced tilts and tournaments in honour of the ladies, 
9f whom Miss Franks was one. 



416 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

prepared to pour out against me, in the public papers, on this impor- 
tant and interesting occasion. But Madam ! Madam ! reputation, (as 
< Common Sense' very sensibly, though not very uncommonly, ob- 
serves) is a very serious thing. You have already injured me in the 
tenderest part, and I demand satisfaction; and as you cannot be 
ignorant of the laws of duelling, having conversed with so many Irish 
officers, whose favoiuite topic it is, particularly in the company of 
ladies, I insist on the privilege of the injured part}^, which is to name 
liis hour and weapons ; and, as I intend it to be a very serious affair, 
Avill not admit of any seconds ; as you may depend upon it Miss 
Franks, that whatever may be 3^our spirit on the occasion, the world 
shall never accuse General Lee of having turned his back upon you. 
In the mean time, I am yours, C. L. 

" P. S. I have communicated the affair only to my confidential 
friend, who has mentioned it to no more than seven members of Con- 
gress, and nineteen women, six of whom were old maids, so that there 
is no danger of its taking wind on my side, and I hope you will be 
equally guarded on your part.'' 



About the period of the final departure of the Bri- 
tish from New-York, an excellent repartee made by 
Major Upham, Aid-de-Camp to Lord Dorchester, to 
Miss Susan Livingston, has been much celebrated. 
*' In mercy, Major," said Miss Livingston, *' use your 
influence with the Commander in Chief, to accelerate 
the evacuation of the city ; for among your encarce- 
rated belles, your Mischianza Princesses, the scarlet 
fever must continue to rage till your departure." '' I 
should studiously second your wislies," replied the 
rdajor, '' were 1 not apprehensive, that freed from the 
prevailing malady, a worse would follow, and that 
they would be immediately tormented wilii the Blue 
Devils^ 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 417 



SIR GUY CARLTON. 

While the gallant defence of Quebec by General 
Carlton, evinced the excellence of his military talents, 
and his liberal treatment of the vanquished did honour 
to his humanity, particular credit is due to him, for his 
skilful management even of the prejudices of the 
troops under his command. Apprehending, during the 
protracted sie^e, that the return of St. Patrick's Day 
would occasion the soldiers of the garrison, chiefly 
Irishmen, to indulge too freely in generous libations to 
the memory of the Patron Saint of Erin ; and that his 
vigilant adversary would profit by their intemperance 
to attack the town; in orders, issued on the 16th of 
March, he invited " All true Irishmen to meet him on 
the following day, at 12 o'clock, on parade, to drink 
the health of the King, St. Patrick's Day being, for 
that year only, put off till the 4th of June." An 
Irishman himself, and highly honoured by all who 
served under him, his proposition was applauded, and 
perfect sobriety reigned ; where, according to all for- 
mer experience, riot and disorder alone were to be 
looked for. 



CAPTAIN MILLIGAN. 

The esjmt clu corps, which so decidedly marks th«i 
attachment of military men to their companions in 
arms, was never more strikingly exhibited than on the 
occasion of which I am jiovv to speak 

On the 4th of July, 1798, while the Society of the 
Cincinnati were celebrating the Anniversary of the 

53 



418 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

Independency of the United States, a letter was de- 
livered to Major Lining, the Treasurer, a part of whose 
duty it was, to levy fines on absentees, and other de- 
faulters, from Captain Milligan, a Member of the 
Association. It was written in these words : 



'^ My Dear Major, 

" The Society, at its first formation, very properly imposed a 
fine upon every Member, who being within reach of the city, ne- 
glected to attend the celebration of the Birth Day of our Liberties. 
A fine too, to an equal amount, was imposed on every one, who on 
the decease of a Brother Soldier, neglected to pay due honour to his 
memory, by absenting himself from his funeral. I have a little to 
say on both subjects. On the verge of the grave, with scarcely 
strength to hold my pen, suffering under the affliction of extreme 
penury, I think it no degradation to state, that the Guinea which I 
forfeit this day, by non-attendance, while it can add but a trifle to 
your funds, will be essentially useful to my afflicted family. Let 
me hope, then, from the generous sympathy of your hearts, that the 
fine be, on this occasion, remitted. 

" And now, that my friends are collected to celebrate the event, 
the most propitious to the happiness of man that the world ever wit- 
nessed, permit me, while I offer my congratulations, wishing them 
much present enjoyment, and future felicity, to request, that as many 
of them as can make it convenient, will do me the honour to attend 
my funeral, which, from certain feelings not at all calculated to de- 
ceive, must necessarily happen within a very few days. Attention 
to this, my earnest solicitation, will not fail to sooth the last moments 
of your brother, and affectionate well-wisher, 

" T. MILLIGAN." 

Within a week Captain Milligan expired, justly and 
sincerely lamented. The Society, to a man, attended 
his funeral — they did more, they adopted and educated 
his orphan daughter, who married well, and is now 
happily settled in Ireland. 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 419 



ROMANTIC ENTERPRISE. 

The Anecdote which follows is given on the autho- 
rity of Mr. Samuel Brailsford, formerly of Bristol, in 
Great Britain. He was a native of South-Carolina, 
and enthusiastically attached to the American cause, 
which gained him the affection and confidence of all 
his youthful countrymen, who, at the commencement 
of the Revolutionary War, were pursuing their studies 
in Europe. Inspired with the most exalted admiration 
of Scoevola, and the Roman youths, who aimed, by the 
devotion of their lives, to give liberty to Rome, by cut- 
ting off Porsenna, its most formidable enemy ; an in- 
trepid enthusiast, in the year 1775 proposed, in an 
assembly of twenty of his countrymen, who had met 
in London, that each of them, in the disguise of a 
sailor, should enter on board of as many. different Bri- 
tish men of war, and pledge himself, by a solemn oath, 
within a limited time, to blow up the vessel in which 
he embarked. So desperate a scheme could only have 
originated in a mind deeply wounded by the injuries 
inflicted upon his country; and my knowledge of the 
noble and generous feeling of the mover, makes me 
bold to say, that in a moment of sober reflection^ he 
would have been the last to encourage it. The recom- 
mendation, however, was not received, at the moment, 
as he wished it to be. Some five or six of the com- 
pany approved it, and declared themselves ready to 
second his wishes, and give the pledge required; but 
by the majority, open generous hostility was preferred, 
and the project was abandoned. 



426 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 



M'GILL AND VAN SKIVER. 

I WOULD not, when speaking of the good conduct 
and meritorious services of several of the Legionary 
soldiers, in a former part of these Anecdotes, have in- 
troduced the names of the men I am now to mention, 
on any consideration. They belonged, it is true, to the 
corps, but their crimes far more than their talents or 
their virtues attracted attention; and they are noiO 
noticed merely to show, when once the path of honour 
is forsaken, to how great a degree human depravity 
can be extended. It must, however, be acknowledged 
that they were not equally atrocious in villainy; the 
errors of M'Gill were the result of intemperance ; Van 
Skiver's proceeded from consummate and boundless 
depravity. 

In giving an account of the ardour with which 
Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens sought, on all occa- 
sions, to encounter the enemy, I mentioned that a Bri- 
tish soldier, who had been whipped and drummed out 
of the 64th Regiment for intemperance, had, by care- 
lessly throwing his coat on a bush, endangered the life 
not only of that gallant officer, but of many of the most 
intrepid soldiers of the Legion, who swam the Ashley 
River, in the expectation of immediately engaging an 
ambuscaded force, whose position accident alone had 
betrayed. 

Some months after this, Sergeant Du Coin, of Ru- 
dolph's company, who had contrived to gain the affec- 
tions of a widow possessing considerable property, 
solicited his discharge, and was promised it, on con- 
dition of bringing forward four substitutes to supply 
his place in the Regiment. Captain Rudolph retiring, 
at the moment, to sick quarters, left it to my charge to 
examine the men who should be ofTered by Du Coin, 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 421 

and, if approved, to brin^ the business to a close, cau- 
tioning me at the same time, to remember the strict 
injunctions of Lee, never to enlist a British soldier, a 
foreigner, or a drunkard. The substitutes were brought 
forward. Three line looking youths, recently dis- 
charged from the North-Carolina Line, the time of 
their service having expired, were examined, approved, 
and enlisted. A remarkably handsome man, of fine 
martial appearance, well dressed, and of a prepossess- 
ing countenance, now advanced, declaring himself a 
Pennsylvanian, of Irish parentage, who, ambitious to 
distinguish himself, had taken along journey purposely 
to see service. He looked and acted his part so admi- 
rably, that I was completely thrown off my guard, and 
enlisted him also, but had speedily the mortification to 
find, that I had so far departed from my instructions, 
as to have admitted into the corps a British soldier, a 
foreigner, and an habitual drunkard. His propensity 
to liquor was in a few days discovered, and on my re- 
primanding him for it, he, with undaunted insolence, 
exclaimed, '' You, Sir, are the last man who should 
find fault; for, at our first meeting, you may remember, 
that I frankly told you that I had been expelled with 
disgrace from the 64th British Regiment, because the 
the drummer's lash had lost all its terrors for me, when 
I could lay my hand on liquor. You saw that my 
flayed back would not admit the use of my coat, so 
that the error of my enlistment is altogether your 
own." I would not have wasted time on a subject so 
little important, w'ere it not to show, that even in 
minds the most debased, instances may occur of gene- 
rous feeling, that are creditable to human nature. 
M^Gill, by associating with men of regular habits, 
became daily more hlimanized, and was on the whole 
a good, though, occasionally, an irregular soldier. 

Captain James Grahame, of the British 64th Re- 
giment, married and settled in South-Carolina. It was 



422 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

some time after the peace, that riding out unarmed, in 
the neighbourhood of his plantation, he was accosted 
by a man in military dress, with a naked bayonet in 
his hand, who stepping up in front of his horse, and 
seizing the bridle, said, " I suppose. Captain Grahame, 
you have no inclination to recognize an old acquaint- 
ance, particularly one so much the victim of your 
severity as I have been." " On the contrary, M'Gill," 
replied the Captain, *' 1 feel no inclination to deny my 
knowledge of you, — I remember you perfectly; and 
although 1 cannot misunderstand your present inten- 
tion, and am probably destined to fall by your hand, 
do not hesitate to tell you, what, as a soldier well 
acquainted with his duty, you know to be strictly cor- 
rect, that finding you drunk on your post, I brought 
you, and very properly, to punishment. The love of 
life can make no change in my sentiments. Were it 
to do over again, I would act as I have done." " And 
you would do right," said M'Gill, sheathing his bayo- 
net. "Captain Grahame, my resentments cease: I 
thought I never could have pardoned you ; but 1 now 
consider my enmity altogether unjust, my punishment 
and disgrace richly merited. Pass on; you need never 
more fear injury from me." Saying this he bowed and 
retired. 

Such a display of generous feeling encourages the 
hope of a return to virtue. But, I am now to speak 
of a character so completely abandoned, that from the 
freehand constant indulgence of vice, clothed in its 
darkest attributes, it appeared alone susceptible of re- 
ceiving delight and gratification. 

Van Skiver was a native of New-York, and private 
soldier in the corps raised by Colonel Buskirk, for the 
service of Great Britain. A Loyalist from convenience, 
it is probable that some flagrant irregularity had subjetc- 
ed him to the anger of his superiors; and that to avoid 
merited punishment, he had sought security by desertion. 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 4^3 

Arrived at the American camp, she showed so much of 
inveterate and deadly animosity against the friends 
whom he had abandoned, and spoke with such confi- 
dence of the practicability of injuring them by an 
attack upon their out-posts, that Lieutenant Colonel 
Lee was induced to listen to his plans with compla- 
cency, and ultimately to accede to his proposal, to 
attempt the carrying of the post at Paulus' Hook, by 
surprise. Entire confidence, however, was not placed 
in him. Armed with an axe, he was placed at the 
head of the advancing column, a file of men with 
fixed bayonets, following immediately in his rear, 
ready to terminate his existence, if he either faltered, 
or showed the slightest symptom of treachery. With 
steady step, and undaunted resolution, he advanced 
and actually cut down two barriers in succession, 
giving free admission to our troops into the body of the 
place ; a third, however, was still to be gained, which 
was defended with great resolution, and so heavy a fire 
kept up upon the assailants, that after many fruitless 
efforts to dislodge the enemy, they were compelled to 
retire. It might be imagined, that such a display of 
hostility against the British, might have caused Van 
Skiver to be ranked amongst the most determined of 
their enemies ; but, even at the moment, his appear- 
ance of zeal was merely intended as a lure, to gain 
respect and confidence, for he had scarcely returned to 
camp, when it was discovered, that he was in treaty, 
and actually far advanced in a plan, to deliver Lee 
and his Legion into the hands of the enemy. Severe 
was the penalty which he paid. Sentenced to receive 
five hundred lashes, he had the greater part of them 
inflicted, and was drummed out of tiie army. When 
again expressing decided attachment to the Royal 
Standard, he returned to New- York, and was heard 
of no more. 



424 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 



CAPTAIN LAND. 

In the year 1781, while Lord Rawdoii was in com- 
mand at Camden, and Sumter lay on the borders of 
North- Carolina, the male inhabitants of the intervening 
settlements, who were capable of bearing arms, re- 
sorted to one or the other, according to the political 
principles which they cherished. The Whigs in the 
neighbourhood of Rocky Creek, forty miles above 
Camden, having, previously to their joining Sumter, 
chosen John Land, a respectable resident, as their 
Captain, adopted a practice of occasionally visiting 
the settlement, to pass the night with their families, 
and return at early morn to can^p. On the evening of 
the 2d of March, Captain Land, with seven of his 
companions, arrived at his home, placed a sentinel at 
the door, and having for some hours enjoyed the so- 
ciety of his delighted family, retired to rest. The 
period of repose was but of short duration. The 
Tories had, by some unknown means, obtained infor- 
mation of his intended visit, and a party of them, 
thirty in number, under the command of a Captain 
Daniel Muse, arrived at midnight in the neighbour- 
hood, and having carefully secured all the old men 
and boys, likely to communicate intelligence, pushed 
on for Land's. When within about an hundred and 
fifty yards of the log-house which he inhabited, they 
were perceived by the sentinel at the door, who having 
hailed, fired on them. A momentary halt was made, 
and a guard being placed over their prisoners, two old 
men, a youth, and two boys, a furious charge was 
made on the house. The gallant inmates received 
them with firmness, kept up a lively fire through the 
open spaces betwixt the logs, and finally repulsed 
them, having previously mortally wounded Lieutenant 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 425 

Lewis Yarboroush, the second in command. The 
Tory party taking up their line of march through 
woods and by-ways, now retreated, and moved with 
such celerity, as to reach the British Head-Quarters at 
Camden, by twelve o'clock the same day, carrying the 
youth and two boys, one of them, Dr. John Mackey, 
now an inhabitant of Charleston, as trophies of their 
prowess and gallantry. The old man and wounded 
officer, were left on the way. 

Poor Land did not long enjoy the triumph of this 
little victory. Emboldened by success, he ventured ia 
about three weeks on another visit to his family, ac- 
companied by betwixt twenty and thirty of his neigh- 
bours. The party reached Rocky Creek in the eve- 
ning, and having agreed to assemble at the house of 
one Boyd on the following day, dispersed each indi- 
vidual retiring to his own family. But, alas ! Trea- 
chery was again on foot. The enemy were apprized 
of every movement ; and Lord Rawdon having lost 
much of his confidence in his Tory auxiliaries, by the 
failure of their former essay, sent a detachment of his 
Regular Cavalry, united with them, to cut off Land 
and his followers. Their success, on this occasion, 
was but too complete. Many of the party were 
killed as they approached the place of rendezvous, 
and amon^ them the unfortunate Captain Land, who 
was butchered in cold blood, in revenge, no doubt, for 
the death of Yarborough, whom he had killed in just 
and honourable combat. 



54 



426 MISCELLAiNEOUS ANECDOTES. 



JUDGE BURKE. 

In sketching the character of this worthy citizen, I 
neglected to mention an Anecdote highly characteristic 
of his singular turn of mind, which I shall now briefly 
detail. A friend, with whom he lived in habits of the 
strictest intimacy, once observing, that he was tempted 
to engage in a law-suit, from the prospect of deriving 
very great advantage from its results ; the Judge, with 
great frankness, replied, " The time you take for de- 
liberation will not be lost, believe me, since to insure 
success, three things are essentially necessary. You 
must have a good cause, a good' Lawyer, and a good 
Judge." ** Then, my friend," said the would-be liti- 
gator, *^ I will proceed." " Be not too precipitate," 
rejoined the Judge, " for I forgot to mention another 
requisite to success — good luck,^"^ 



EXTRAORDINARY ESCAPE. 

During the siege cJf Charleston a shell from the 
British lines, fell on the tent occupied by two volun- 
teers,- Mr. Lord and Mr. Basqueen, who had, from 
excessive fatigue, retired to seek repose, and were at 
the moment buried in profound sleep. The explosion 
was violent: The body of Mr. Lord was wretchedly 
mangled, being torn literally to pieces. Mr. Basqueen 
escaped without injury ; for although the hair of his 
head was singed, his sleep was not disturbed; and 
when dragged from the ruins of the tent appeared 
altogether free from hurt* 



jVIISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 427 



SERGEANT POWER. 

It is ever delightful to me to speak of a soldier as 
much distinguished by exemplary good conduct as 
Power, and therefore hope to be excused for mention- 
ing a very singular occurrence which took place while 
the Legi6n lay at Mrs. Legere's plantation, on the 
Santee. Mr. Power, afterwards promoted, but at the 
time a Sergeant in the cavalry, being reduced to ex- 
tremity by disease, and despaired of by the Surgeon of 
the Regiment, earnestly solicited that he might be 
allowed to eat a cucumber, many of which he recol- 
lected to have seen in the garden, previously to his con- 
finement. " Nature is exhausted," said the Surgeon, 
to the friends who surrounded him, *' he must inevita- 
bly die, — indulge his longing therefore, — give him a 
cucumber, but let it be a small one." The advice was 
attended to — Power received it with strong indication 
of joy, and immediately became so tranquil, that the 
guard, who had been greatly fatigued by watching over 
him, embraced the opportunity, and indulged in a 
refreshing sleep. Waking up at length, and finding 
the most profound stillness in the apartment, he ap- 
proached the bed, not doubting but that the unfor- 
tunate Sergeant had exi')ired, but his astonishment may 
well be imagined to have been excessive, when the 
sick man exclaimed, " I have got it, I have got it," and 
showed the remains of a half eaten cucumber, of an 
immense size, .that had been left for seed, and was 
now, from age, as yellow as gold. He had actually 
descended, while his attendant slept, into the garden, 
and brought off the prize, that, seen from his window? 
he declared had been the object of his constant and 
unconquerable desire. His recovery was rapid, and 



428 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

much rejoiced at, for his talents and bravery did him 
honour; and to the end of the war he not only in- 
creased his own, but the reputation of his Regiment. 



PETITION OF THE LADIES IN CHARLESTON, IN BEHALF 
OF THE UNFORTUNATE COL. ISAAC HAYNE. 

In noticing the particulars of the capture, unmerited 
sufferings, and execution of this martyr to the cause of 
freedom, I should have recorded the petition presented, 
in his behalf, by the ladies of Charleston. The sen- 
te»ce that threatened his life, by all deemed harsh, and 
by many considered as having a greater tendency to 
excite revolt than to check it, called forth the most 
tender and compassionate feelings of the heart, and 
caused such general sympathy, that many even of the 
most decided enemies of the principles he supported, 
solicited its mitigation, or rather that it should be 
altogether annulled. Many of the Tory as well as 
Whig Ladies signed the petition of which I shall now 
give a few extracts. Had Lord Rawdon remembered 
that 

" Not the deputed sword, 
*' The Marshal's truncheon, nor the Judge's robe, 
" Become him with one half so good a grace 
'' As mercy does," 

humanity had triumphed, and they would not have 
tendered their prayers in vain. 

TO LORD RAWDON, COMMANDER IN CHIEF OF THE BRITISH FORCES IN 
SOUTH-CAROLINA, AND COLONEL BALFOUR, COMMANDANT AT 

charleston, 

" My Lord and Sir, 

" We should have reason to reproach ourselves, for having 
emitted a proper occasion of manifesting the tenderness peculiarly 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 429 

ehamcteristic of our sex, if we did not profess ourselves deeply inte- 
rested and affected by the imminent and shocking doom of the most 
Unfortunate Mr. Hayne ; and if we did not intreat you, in the most 
earnest manner e^raciously to avert, prolong, or mitigate it. We pre- 
sume to make this intercession for him, from the knowledge of youi* 
dispositions, as well as from the reflection, that humanity is rarely 
separated from courage ; and that the gallant soldier feels as much 
reluctance, to cause by deliberate decrees, the infliction of death on 
men in cold blood, as he does ardour in the day of battle, and heat 
of action, to make the enemies of his country perish by the sword. 
He may rejoice to see his laurels sprinkled with the blood of armed 
and resisting adversaries ; but regret to see them wet with the tears 
of unhappy orphans, mourning the loss of a tender, amiable, and 
worthy parent, executed like a vile and infamous felon. To the 
praises of your military virtues and prowess, we trust you will give 
the Ladies occasion to add the praises of your milder and softer vir- 
tues, by furnishing them with a striking proof of your clemency in 
the present instance. To that clemency, to our prayers, and to his 
merits in other respects, let the unhappy object of our petition owe^ 
what you might not think him entitled to, if policy were not out- 
weighed in his behalf. To any other men in power than such as 
we conceive you both to be, we should employ on the occasion, more 
ingenuity and art, to dress up and enforce the many pathetic and 
favourable circumstances attending his case, in order to move your 
passions and engage your favour ; but, we think this will be need- 
less, as obviated by your spontaneous feeling, humanity, aiid liberal 
reasoning. Nor shall we dwell on his most excellent character, the 
outrages and excesses prevented by him ; nor lay any stress on the 
most grievous shock his numerous and respectable connexions must 
sustain by his death, aggravated by the mode of it ; nor shall we do 
more than remind you, of the complicated distress and sufferings that 
must befal liis young and promising children, to whom death would 
be preferable to the state of the orphanage they will be left in. 
" We are, my Lord and Sir, 

'" With all respect, your very anxious petitioners 
" And humble servants. 



430 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES; 



DUEL BETWEEN GENERAL CADWALLADER AND GENERAL 

CONWAY. 

The particulars of this duel, orginating in the ho- 
» mourable feelings of General Cadwallader, indignant 
at the attempt of his adversary to injure the reputation 
of the Commander in Chief, by representing him as 
unqualified for the exalted station which he held, ap- 
pears worthy of record. Nor ought the coolness 
observed on the occasion by the parties, to be forgotten, 
as it evinces very strongly, that although imperious cir- 
cumstances may compel men of nice feeling to meet, 
that the dictates of honour may be satisfied without the 
smallest deviation from the most rigid rules of polite- 
ness. When arrived at the appointed rendezvous, Gen- 
eral Cadwallnder, accompanied by General Dickenson 
of Pennsylvania, General Conway by Colonel Morgan 
of Princeton, it was agreed upon by the seconds, that 
on the word being given, the principals might fire in 
their own time, and at discretion, either by an off- 
hand sliot, or by taking a deliberate aim. The parties 
having declared themselves ready, the word was given 
to proceed. General Conway immediately raised his 
pistol, and fired with great composure, but without 
effect. General Cadwallader was about to do so, 
when a sudden gust of wind occurring, he kept his 
pistol down and remained tranquil. " Why do you 
not fire, General Cadwallader ?" exclaimed Conway. 
" Because," replied General Cadwallader, ** we came 
not here to trifle. Let the gale pass, and I shall act 
my part." *' You shall have a fair chance of perform- 
ing it well," rejoined Conway, and immediately pre- 
sented a full front. General Cadwallader fired, and 
his ball entering the mouth of his antagonist, he fell 
directly forward on his face. Colonel Morgan run- 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 431 

iiing to his assistance, found the blood spouting from 
behind his neck, and lifting up the club of his hair, 
saw the ball drop from it. It had passed through his 
head greatly to the derangement of his tongue and 
teeth, but did not inflict a mortal wound. As soon as 
the blood was sufficiently washed away to allow him 
to speak, General Conway, turning to his opponent, 
said good humouredly, " You fire, General, with 
much deliberation, and certainly with a great deal of 
eflfect." The calTs of honour satisfied, all animosity 
subsided, and they parted free from all resentment. 



EXPULSION OF CONGRESS FROM PHILADELPHIA. 

Some months subsequent to the signing of the pre- 
liminary articles of Peace, General Greene, in order 
to spare the Pennsylvanians the fatigues of a tedious 
march, and to save expense to the United States, en- 
gaged a letter of marque belonging to Rhode-Island, 
to transport two companies of that line to Philadel- 
phia. A change of climate being considered as neces- 
sary to the re-establishment of my health, which was, 
at that period, much impaired, I obtained permission to 
embark with them, promising to await the General's 
arrival in that city, where he expected to have much 
business to transact with Congress. We arrived at a 
most important moment. As our troops disembarked, 
a considerable number of mutineers of their own line, 
from Lancaster, surrounded the Hall of Congress, 
demanding the prompt settlement of their accounts, 
and threatening vengeance in case of refusal, or even 
an attempt to procrastinate the consideration of their 
claims. It was my misfortune to witness this outrage ; 



432 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. ^ 

and to find, that too many of the men, who had re- 
turned with honour from the South, forsook their 
officers to join the disaffected, and support their un- 
warrantable proceedings. Violence whs now increased 
to so high a pitch, that General Hamilton, at the time 
a member of the National Legislature, having fruit- 
lessly endeavoured, by expostulation, to subdue the 
wrath of the revolters, and moderate the extrava^iance 
of their demands, joined his colleagues in the Hall of 
their deliberations, and calmly advised them " to think 
of eternity, since he confidently believed, that within the 
space of an hour, not an individual of their body would 
be left alive." *^ The supineness of the authorities of the 
State, under these circumstances, was the cause of gene- 
ral astonishment. It was said, that General Read, and 
many distinguished military characters, indignant at 
the treatment offered to the National Representatives, 
strongly urged the calling out of the militia, volun- 
teering their services, and pledging themselves, by a 
decisive blow, to restore tranquillity. Governor Dick- 
enson, however, was determined to avoid violent mea- 
stires ; and as danger was inseparable from delay, 
Congress, during the night, left the city for Princeton. 
The mutineers, with increasing insolence, now threa- 
tened to take the law into their own hands, and to 
satisfy their claims from the spoils of the Bank. The 
menace at once electrified every bosom ; and it ap- 
peared every man's concern, to render the threat abor- 
tive. The whole city were instantaneously in arms ; 
and in a few hours, the insurgents were either dis- 
persed or prisoners. To their honour it should be 
known, that Major James Hamilton of the 1st Penn- 
sylvania Regiment, recently arrived from the army of 
General Greene, and Captain Boud, who commanded 
the troops from the south, immediately landed, used 
every exertion to check these disgraceful proceedings. 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 433 

till frenzy increased to such a heigthr that to save 
them from assassination, their friends compelled them 
to retire. 



LIEUTENANT COLONEL BUTLER, 

OF morgan's rifle regiment. 

As some months would elapse before General 
Greene could reach Philadelphia, I gladly embraced 
the opportunity of visiting the interior country ; and 
at Lancaster, considered myself particularly fortunate 
in forming an acquaintance with Lieutenant Colonel 
Butler, at that period the Commandant of the post. 
His reputation as a military character, had already 
won my admiration ; his frankness, polite attentions, 
and generous hospitality, confirmed every preposses- 
sion in his favour. 

It was the cause of great astonishment, to hear a 
gentleman, the suavity of whose manners would have 
graced a Court, declare, " That to the simplicity of the 
savage life, he gave a decided preference over the 
modes of polished society ; and that he impatiently 
waited the definitive signing of a Peace with Britain, 
to repair to the wilderness, and resume habits pecu- 
liarly suited to his disposition." *' The ease and indo- 
lence," he would say, " which characterized Indian 
manners, when plenty abounded, the activity and enter- 
prise resorted to, to procure subsistence, and obtain 
comforts in times of necessity, had to him great fasci- 
nations ; and that, compared with them, the habits and 
uniform indulgences of polished society, seemed 
irksome and insupportable." 

55 



434 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

I have never been informed, whether or not he car= 
ried his schemes into execution ; though I rather 
suppose that he did not, for he married a young wife, 
and in the war against the Western Indians, which 
broke out very shortly after the conclusion of that of 
the Revolution, we find him in arms, an active Partisan, 
and second in command at the disastrous defeat of St. 
Clair. It was on this occasion, that the intrepid But- 
ler closed his military career in death — his coolness 
preserved, and courage remaining unshaken, till the last 
moment of existence. While enabled to keep the 
field, his exertions were truly heroic. He repeatedly 
led his men to the charge, and with slaughter drove 
the enemy before him ; but, being at length compelled 
to retire to his tent, from the number and severity of 
his wounds, he was receiving surgical aid, when a 
ferocious warrior rushing into his presence, gave him 
a mortal blow with his tomahawk. But even then the 
gallant soldier died not unrevenged. He had antici- 
pated this catastrophe, and discharging a pistol which 
he held in his hand, lodged its contents into the breast 
of his enemy, who uttering a hideous yell, fell by his 
side and expired ! 



COMMODORES AFFLECK AND SWEENEY. 

While waiting the arrival of General Greene at 
Philadelphia, I was introduced to the British Com- 
modores Afileck and Sweeney, by Captain Armstrong 
of the Legion, who had been treated by the latter, 
while a prisoner in Charleston, with marked attention; 
and gladly united with him, in using every exertion to 
render their visit interesting and agreeable to them. 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 436 

We accompanied them, in consequence of a polite 
invitation from Captain Barry, on a visit to the Al- 
liance frigate ; and on returning towards the shore, 
received a complimentary salute, for which they ex- 
pressed great thankfulness. 

Visiting Peale's Gallery of Portraits, where the like- 
nesses of the officers who had most distinguished 
themselves by their Revolutionary services, were pre- 
served, I could not but observe, that the attention of 
Sir Edmond Affleck was altogether engrossed by one 
head, which he appeared to regard with peculiar satis- 
faction ; and was not a little surprised to hear him say, 
" I know not who this portrait is intended to repre- 
sent ; but, however great the merits of others may be, 
I see no expression of countenance in the collection, 
that gives to me so perfect an idea of bold and in- 
flexible resolution." His correct discernment of cha-, 
racter, in this instance, is remarkable; anH it is a 
singular circumstance, that it was the oaly likeness of 
a Naval Hero in the Gallery. It was, in fact, the por- 
trait, and an admirable likeness, of Paul Jones. 



RECEPTION OF GENERAL GREENE 

AT PHILADELPHIA. 

Nothing could be more flattering to a man ambitious 
to merit the esteem of his fellow citizens, than the 
reception given to General Greene by the inhabitants 
of Philadelphia. As soon as his approach to the city 
was announced, all the military officers of rank, and 
many of the most distinguished patriots and citizens 
in the Civil Department, went forward to meet him. 
He was conducted to his quarters through crowded 



436 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

Streets, where every window was thronged with beauty, 
and welcomed by looks of grateful admiration, and a 
a respectful silence, more flattering by far than the 
applauses of noisy vociferation. These, however, were 
not altogether withheld; and when (as he entered the 
Hotel) I heard the shout of " honour to the victor of 
the South — long life to Greene," I thought his triumph 
complete. 

There was no attention that merit could call 
for, or gratitude bestow, which was not lavished on 
him for the short period of his stay in the city. But 
Congress were within a short distance, and anxious to 
pay his respects, and to answer any inquiries that might 
be made relative to the conduct and final dismissal of 
the Southern Army, General Greene continued hi?; 
route to Princeton. 




EETING WITH THE COMMAPsDER IxX CHIEF. 



At Colonel Coxe's, at Trenton, I was gratified by 
\vitnessing an interview which I must ever remember 
with delight. On entering the house, General Greene 
had the happiness to find that the Commander in Chief, 
who had escorted Mrs. Washington so far on her way 
to V.irginia, had arrived but a few minutes before him. 
It would be altogether impossible for me, to give even 
a faint idea of the joy that animated the intelligent 
countenances of these great men, so sincerely attached, 
and so unexpectedly brought together. The one intel- 
ligibly spoke the grateful feelings of an honourable 
man for the friendship which had advanced him to 
command, the other the admiration of the valour and 
prudential conduct which had so fully justified his 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 4S7 

recommondation. In every look, in every word, the 
strongest indications of reciprocal and afifectionate 
regard was manifested; and I feel conviction that 
neither the one or the other had ever experienced sen- 
sations of more exalted delight. 



THE EFFECT OF PEACE ON THE SOLDIERS' CONSE- 
QUENCE IN SOCIETY. 

I AM now about to relate an Anecdote, which, how- 
ever lightly it may be thought of at this time, plainly 
shows that disrespect and ingratitude have too often 
been manifested towards military men, when their ser- 
vices were no longer in requisition. 

General Washington and General Greene, on the 
day following their fortunate meeting, set out for 
Princeton. On their arrival there, the Secretary of the 
President of Congress presented himself, with a re- 
quest from Mr. Boudinot, who held that honourable 
station, that all ceremony should be waved, and that 
the Generals, with the gentlemen of their respective 
families, would partake of an entertainment then serv- 
ing up. The invitation being accepted, the whole 
party repaired to the Presidential house. Compliments 
passed, and dinner announced. The President placing 
himself between the Generals, led the way to the eat- 
ing room. An individual, a Mr. H , who certainly 

possessed much more of the affectation than reality of 
politeness, now took it upon himself to do the honours 
of the house, and turning to one of the company, said, 

*' Mr. R , Member of Congress, you are next the 

door, pray go forward. Mr. Z , Member of Con- 
gress, 'tis your turn — go forward, if you please." — 
Thus he went on. till all the gentlemen in the Civil 



43B MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

Department had gone forward : and then (being a 
Member of Congress himself) quitted the room, leav- 
ing General Kosciusko, Colonel Maitland, Major Ed- 
wards, the Adjutant General of the Southern Army, 
and the Aids-de-Camp of General Greene, to find their 
own way to the table. Such conduct is no novelty. 
Soldiers, as I have already stated, are estimated accord- 
ing to their immediate utility. Let their exertions be 
wanted, and they are sure to command universal '^iiieTl'' 
tion- The danger past, they are too frequently for- 
gotten. 

I have a tale in point to show, that the same dispo- 
sition prevailed ill former times, as at the period 1 
speak of. 

An English officer passing through the County of 
York, during the Rebellion which broke out in Scot- 
land in the year 1745, was received and treated with 
peculiar kindness by a Quaker, who, at the moment of 
his departure, said to him, " Go forward, friend, smite 
thy opponents, crush rebellion ; and on thy return, re- 
member to tarry with him, who regards thee as one of 
the Pillars of the Nation." The hopes of the Pre- 
tender, extinguished by the decisive victory of Co- 
lodden, the Englishman ordered to the South, and 
])assing near the habitation of his kind entertainer, did 
not forget the cordiality with which he had been 
pressed, to repeat his visit, and repaired to the house 
of the Quaker ; but, with a look that gave little indi- 
cation of hospitality, or even acknowledgment of for- 
mer acquaintance, the starch hypocrite exclaimed — 
" Retire, friend, I know thee not." *' Not know me," 
said the officer. ** Why when last we parted, you not 
only pressed me to return to you when the Rebellion 
should be extinguished, but assured me, moreover, that 
you regarded me as one of the Pillars of the Nation." 
" Did I so ?" rejoined the Quaker ; " then, trust me, 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 4^9 

friend, 1 must have meant one of the Ccitter pillar s.'^'' 
My tale needs no comment. 



DISTINGUISHED CHARACTERS. 

Writing with professed intention to excite in the 
bosoms of my young countrymen, the ambition to 
emulate their ancestors, in the display of patriotic 
virtue, I cannot be considered incorrect while recalling 
to remembrance the names of the heroes and states- 
men pre-emmew^/y distinguished, if I, at the same time, 
bring inlo view the exemplary good conduct of other 
citizens, who, in an humbler sphere of usefulness, by 
the steadiness of their principles, and unremitted exer- 
tions, contributed to the accomplishment of our Inde- 
pendency, and the establishment of that happy govern- 
ment which is at once the envy and admiration of the 
world. 

To a stranger arriving in our State, and naturally 
inquiring, " which are the families, who, in the day of 
trial, rendered the most essential services to their coun- 
try ?" would it not be criminal to say, " the current of 
subsequent events have consigned them to oblivion !" 
Would it not appear the perfection of injustice and in- 
gratitude? I should certainly pronounce it such ; and 
with sensations of far greater delight and exalted en- 
thusiasm, proclaim, — *' When the power of Britain was 
predominant in the land, when the current of their 
successes had swept away almost every barrier to the 
tyranny which the commanders of her armies appeared 
determined to impose, when hope was lost to the timid 
and the wavering, and even to the most sanguine the 
prospect of success but glimmered at a distance, there 
were not wanting exalted spirits, in whose bosoms 
despondency could find no p/ace,-— who never despaired 



440 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

of the ultimate triumphs of the cause of liberty Smd 
their country." The Barnwells, Bees, Butlers, Hey- 
vv^ards, Hugers, Pinckneys, Richardsons, Rutledges, 
Shubricks and Taylors, were distinguished by conduct 
uniformly correct. Nor less so the Warleys, who gave 
four sons to the Continental service; the Alstons, 
Canteys, Cattells, Edwards', Elliotts, Gibbes', Gray- 
sons, Hamptons, Hardings, Holmes', James', Legares, 
Postells, Prioleaus, De Saussures, Simons', Starks, 
Talbirds, Vanderhorsts, Witherspoons, and Waties', 
who furnished as many zealous supporters of Revoluc 
tionary principles, as there were individuals among 
them capable of bearing arms, or qualified to guide 
the councils of the nation. That many others are 
equally entitled to be mentioned with honourable dis- 
tinction, is most certain; I have merely enumerated 
such as most forcibly recur to memory, and where an 
omission exists, it is certainly not from intention, as it 
is my most ardent wish to give the praise of patriotic 
firmness to all who are deserving of it. There are 
many individuals also, who should be named with 
marked respect. 

There was not in the Continental service, an officer 
who performed every duty with greater alacrity and 
exactitude, than Major Simeon Theus. At the com- 
mencement of the war, when the funds of the Treasury 
of the State were at a low ebb, and the example of 
patriotic citizens was necessary to give them support 
and stability, he sold his patrimonial estate, and lent 
the proceeds to the government. When the war was 
concluded, appointed to settle all accounts between the 
State and the government of the United States, he per- 
formed the duty so much to the satisfaction of the 
public, that the Legislature made him an offer of an 
additional compensation of one thousand dollars, but 
he at once refused to accept it, declaring, that he had 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 441 

set what he considered a fair price on his time and his 
labour, and if it was his happiness to have given satis- 
faction, he was more than i)aid. 

I would mention, with particular commendation, 
both Major and Captain Postell. Detachecl by Gene- 
ral Marion across the Santee, in the year 1781, with 
the command of a small number of mounted militia, 
they first destroyed a very considerable quantity of 
valuable stores at Manigault's Ferry, and in the 
vicinity, and then attacking the British post at Monk's 
Corner, destroyed fourteen wagons loaded with sol- 
diers' clothing and baggage, besides other articles of 
value, and made prisoners of forty regulars, effecting 
the whole service without the loss of a man. 

■ On the 20th of August, 1780, immediately subse- 
quent to the disastrous battle of Camden, information 
being received by General Marion, that a guard, with a 
part of the prisoners taken by Lord Cornvvallis, were 
on the road in their way to Charleston, he detached 
Colonel Hugh Horry, with sixteen men, with orders to 
attack the escort, and attempt the deliverance of the 
captives. This was promptly and effectually done by 
the gallant Colonel. Twenty-two British regulars, a 
Captain and subaltern of their Tory adherents, were 
taken, and one hundred and fifty soldiers of the Con- 
tinental Line of Maryland, liberated, with the loss of 
one man only, and an officer wounded. 

Cornet James Simons, of Washington's, detached 
with eleven regular cavalry, and twenty-five mounted 
militia, drove General Cunningham, who was at the 
head of one hundred and fifty Torjes, from a strong 
position near Ninety-Six, where theie was a consider- 
able depot of forage, provision, and stores, for the use 
of the British army, with much plundered property, 

56 



442 MILCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 

the reward of their own toils; and having destroyed 
the whole, rejoined his Regiment without loss. This 
gallant soldier, at the battle of Eutaw, gained new 
honours by his intrepid exertions, but in the contest for 
victory was twice severely wounded. 

The history of Marion's Campaigns, recently pub- 
lished by the honourable Judge James, who served 
under his banners, renders it altogether unnecessary 
to speak of many gallant achievements that he has fully 
detaiii^d. It is grateful to me, however, to express my 
admiration of the partial endurance of misfortunes, of 
privations before unheard of, and of gallantry not to 
be surpassed, exhibited by the Colonels Hugh and 
Peter Horry, Colonel Mayham, the Majors Conyers 
and James, the Captains M'Cauley, Cooper, M'Cottry, 
James, Gavin Witherspoon, and many others. 

The late General Fishburn, wounded when in the 
Continental service at Stono, commanded, with dis- 
tinction, at a subsequent period, a corps of horse, and 
throughout the entire war was esteemed for ardent and 
unshaken patriotism. Governor Paul Hamilton ren- 
dered a most essential service to his country by giving, 
in early youth, a laudable example of firmness, that 
neither danger nor difficulty could ever subdue. In 
short, in every division of the State, individuals ac- 
quired celebrity, and achievements were accomplished 
highly worthy to be recorded, as increasing the glory of 
the nation. Many I fear are already lost, and still more 
likely to rest in perpetual oblivion. My effort to 
obtain information, particularly from the interior coun- 
try, has not met with the success that I had anticipated. 
It is true, the period for receiving it has been very 
limited, for previously to the month of June last, I had 
not written a line. Great is my hope, that better for- 
tune may crown the exertions of some future writer. 



MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 443 

and enable him to show, that, in as high a degree as 
compatible with the attainments of human nature, the 
characteristic features of the sons of Carolina have been 
strongly marked by perseverance, and intrepid resolu- 
tion to obtain success, moderation and generous feel- 
ing in the use of it. 



CONCLUSION. 



In detailing the Anecdotes contained in the volume 
which I now offer to the Public, I have repeatedly, 
with pride and exultation asserted, that in the display 
of generous feeling towards the enemy whom they had 
subdued, the Soldiers of America had distinguished 
claims to applause. My opinions are not speculative, 
but supported by i)roofs incontrovertible. 1 trust, that 
with justice it can never be said of me, that blinded 
by party zeal, I considered the palm of excellence ex- 
clusively possessed by the advocates of Revolutionary 
principles. I solemnly declare, that making sincerity 
and the pure dictates of conscience the test of opinion, 
I readily grant, that proper credit is to be allowed to 
the supporters of opposite tenets, steadily adhering to 
them. 

I have, in my encomiums, done no more than justice 
to the forbearance and merciful disi)osition of the 
military ; but, I am far from thinking, that they alone 
are entitled to applause ; and consider it a tribute to 
justice to state, that in the Councils of the Nation, 
there was a magnanimity displayed, that to our Legis- 
lators give a decided claim to equal honours. 

Before J more particularly speak my own senti- 
ments, I will present an extract from the Oration of 
Mr. Benjamin Elliott, pronounced before the '76 Asso- 
ciation on the 4th of March, 1813, which strikingly 
evinces, that however highly excited the resentments 



CONCLUSION. 445 

of the nation, its magnanimity was still superior to 
them : 

" The passions and the ignorance of the people, it 
is thought, hRve fated a short existence to our freedom. 
This opinion is not based on the American character. 
During our Revolutionary calamities, when hope was 
beat down, and injuries were most unkind, a heartless 
gang of domestic felons, under the appellation of 
Tories, rose against the people. There was no atro- 
city they did not perpetrate — no aggravation they did 
not add to distress. Did you see the cinders of the 
poor man's dwelling ? Who destroyed it ? The 
Tory ! Was the rich man pillaged because he prefer- 
red his country to his wealth ? Who stole his pro- 
perty ? The Tory ! Was the stern Patriot insulted ? 
Who inflicted the indignity ? The Tory ! Yet, after 
the success of Liberty, it was advised, that wrongs 
should be forgiven, and this justly execrated enemy 
viewed as brethren. The American people acquiesced, 
and have enforced every provision of that Godlike 
amnesty. The Patriot does nut enjoy one benefit from 
the Revolution^ which has not been extended to the 
Tory, Fact, therefore, and not speculation, has de- 
termined, that there is no animosity, however obsti- 
nate, no passion, however powerful, which the Ame- 
rican people will not vanquish, when demanded by 
their country's good." 

That the provocation to severity was great, cannot' 
be denied. That it was sensibly felt by those who 
writhed under the afflictions of unmerited i)ersecution, 
is equally true. The decrees of the Jacksonborough 
Assembly, unequivocally proclaimed the irritation 
arising from it. But, as a Carolinian, I am proud to 
say, that with returning Peace, moderation and lenity 
regained their wonted influence. Congress recom- 
mended the removal of the punishments denounced 
against political oifenders : and the Legislatures of the 



446 CONCLUSION. 

different States, seconded their wishes by a prompt 
and generous acqiiiscence with them. 

In South-Carolina, scarcely a trace was left of the 
penalties originally imposed on the disaffected. And 
although the State laboured under great difficulties, 
from an imniense load of debt contracted during the 
war, according to Dr. Ramsay, whose statements were 
ever strictly correct, " confiscated property in actual 
possession of the Commissioners, to the amount of 
nearly five hundred thousand pounds sterling," was 
generously restored. 

Long since has every recollection of the pride and 
insolence betrayed in the hour of success, and the 
injuries heaped upon them by their oppressors, been 
extinguished in the Patriot's bosom ; and every asperity 
softened down by the beneficent spirit of conciliation. 
The feuds of Whig and Tory have been completely 
extinguished. Pardon has been extended even to the 
most obnoxious. They have not only been tolerated, 
but treated with a kindness that could not have been 
looked for ; and had every disqualification removed 
that might impede their progress, aspiring to the at- 
tainment of confidence and esteem. 

" Silent oblivion, joyed to wipe away 
" The record of their madness and their crimes ; 
" And in the stead of wrathful vengeance, claiming 
''' The penalties her due> came reconciling Mercv." 



FINIS. 



ERRATA. 



Page 27, line 34, 

^ -- 12, 



29, 
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48, 
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2.56, 
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335, 
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39R. 



10, 
16, 
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% 
25, 
31, 
33, 

25', 
10, 
18, 
29, 
23. 



for /used, r( 

foi' hoingy 

for acquiremtnts^ 

for reach, 

for Eu/iu^ 

disorderly, 

after Pierce, 

after professors, 

for loyalist, 

for has, 

for engagements, 

after Fox, 

for hold, 

for Eaton, 

for Anserut, 

for Granny Creek, 

for reoeu'jng-. 



refused. 

hoping. 

achievements. 

research. 

Eufin. 

disordered. 

was. 

and. 

loyalists. 

had. 

capitulations. 

an Etonian. 

holds. 

Eton. 

Auderat. 

Gum Swamp > 

received. 



UST OF SUBSCUIBEUS. 



In Charleston. 

LADIES. 

Blake, Margaret 
Burnet, E. W. 
Elliott, Amarintha 
Elliott, J. G. 2 copies. 
Edwards, R. E. 
Edwards, Mrs. Major 
Ferguson, Ann 
F inlay, Mary 
Fossin, Martha 
Gibbes, Sarah, 2 copies. 
Gibbes, Ann 
Gibbes, Frances D. 
Gibbes, Maria 
Grimke, Mary 
Grimke, Angelina 
Grimke, Sarah D. 
Horry, Harriet, 2 copies. 
Hazlehurst, Elizabeth 
Hall, Daniel 
Izard, Alice 
Izard, Elizabeth 
Izard, Claudia 
Irvine, Mary 
Keith, Susan B. 
Laurens, Eliza 
Lightwood, Eliza 
Lining, Mary 
Manigault, M. J. 
M'Call, Elizabeth 
Mitchell, Ann E. 
Morris, Ann 
Osborn, Catharine 
Parker, Elizabeth Alston 
Pringle, Susan 
Pringle, Ann A. 
Pringle, Mary 
Rutledce, Mary 



57 



Rutledge, Harriet P. 
Sebring, Caroline S. 
Smith, Alary 
Smith, M. W. 
Smith, Ann S. 
Smith, Mary N. C. 
Smylie, Susannah 
Stock, Margaret 
Shubrick, Mary 
Thompson, Ann 
Van Rhyn, A. E. 
Wainwright, Ann 
Washington, Jane 
Wragg, Elizabeth 



Adams, D. L. 

Adger, James 

Addison, ThomaJg 

Alanson, Rice 

Alexander, David 

Alexander, S. 

Aiken, William 

Allen William 

Ancrum, Jame>s 

Ash, John S. 

Ashe, Samuel 

Ashby Thomas 

Axson, John 

Axson, Jacob 

Auld, Isaac, Dr. 

Bowen, Right Rev. NatliaifleJ 

Bay, Hon. Judge 

Bay, John 

Bacot, Thomas W. 

Bacot, Henry H. 

Bacot, Daniel D- 

Ball, John, 



460 



SUBSCRIBERS NAMES« 



Ball, Isaac 

Bankhead, Colonel Jame^ 
Babcock, Wm. R. 
Bailey, W. E. 
Bailey, Henry 
Baker, R. B. 
Bamfield, T. 
Banks, Charles 
Bee, Thomas 
Bee, Barnard 
Bennett, Joseph 
Bennett, John S, 
Bennett, W. S. 
Berry, Capt. Arthur, 
De Berrier, William 
Bernie, George 
Black, Alexander 
Black, David 
Blamyer, William 
B, Hy. 
Blake, J. H. 
Boylston, Dr. 
Bonneau, John E. 
Bonneaii, Sims 
Boyce, Ker 
Bounetheau, Henry B^ 
Brisbane, William 
Boucheneau, Charles 
Brown, Alexander 
Brown, Charles 
Browne, Robert C. 
Bryan, Colonel 
Brailsford, Dr". 
Brailsford, William M> 
Broughton, Philip 
Bulow, C. 
Bulow, Major J. J. 
Burrill, J. E. 
Burgoyne, Dr. William 
Bm-ke, M. M. Hall 
Burden, Kinsey 
Burckmyer, Cornelius 
Burckmyer, J. C. 
Capersy Charles G. 
Cattell, Capt. William 
Caldwell, John 
Caldwell, Robert 
Campbell, Dr. I. M. 
Campbell, John 
Campbell, Johii 



Campbell, A. W. 
M'Call, Dr. 
M'Cosh, Joseph 
Cardoza, David 
Carnochan, Richard 
Carr, Robert 
Cheeseborough J. W. 
Chalmers, Henry J. 
Chiffelle, T. P. 
Clarke, Bartholomew 
Clarke, Joseph 
Clarke, Jared 
Cogdell, Maj. J. S. 
Colcock, Hon. Judge 
Colcock, C. J. jun. 
Coffin, T. A. 
Cochran, Thomas 
Colbourn, James Smith 
Cordes, Francis 
Cowing, S. L. 
Condy, Colonel T. D. 
Course, Isaac 
Courtenay, E. S. 
Crafts, Maj. WiUiam 
Cramer, John 
Crocker, D. 

Cross, Colonel Geo. W. 
Cunningham, Richard 
Cuthbert, Gen. J. A. 
Cuthbert, James 
Cuthbert, Thomas 
Cuthbert, J. A. 
Danel, J. J. 
Daws, H. P. 
Dalcho, Rev. F. 
Dawson, John 
Dawson, John K. 
Dawson, L. M. 
Davis, John N. 
Deas, Henry 
Deas, Seaman 
Deas, Thomas 
Deas, Dr. Robert 
De Fougeres, Marquis 
De Carendeffez, Dr. 
De Liesseline, F. A. 
De Liesseline, F. G. 

Duplat , 

Depau, Lewis 

De Saussuie, Henry 



SUBSCRIBERS NAMES. 



©ickson, O. S. 

Dill, Joseph M. 
Doiiirhty, James" 
Doughty, W. C. 
Dorrel, Robert 
Drayton, Hon. Judge 
Drayton, Colonel William 
Drayton, Thomas 
Drayton, William Henry 
Dunkin, B. F. 
Dyson, Abraham 
Eckhard, Jacob 
Eckhard, Geo. B, 
Eckhard, John F. 
Edwards, Dr. C. L. 
Edwards, George 
Edwards, James F. 
Edwards, Edward 
Edmonston, C. 
Egleston, G. W. 
Elfe, Isaac 
Elliott, Stephen 
Elliott, Benjamin 
EUiott, R. E. 
Enslow, J. L. 
Esnard, P. 
Fayolle, Peter 
Farr, John 
Flemming, Thomas 
Flagg, George 
Ferguson, Dr. Samuel 
Ferguson, James 
Fife, J. 
Ford, Jacob 
Ford ham, Richard 
Franks, L. P. 
Eraser, Charles 
Eraser, Frederick G. 
Eraser, John 
Eraser, John G. 
Furman, Richard B. 
Furman, Joseph 
Furman, C. M. 
Gadsden, John 
Gadsden, Thomas 
Garden, Alexander 
Gault, Thomas ' 
Gcddes, General 
Gervais, Rev. Paul T, 
Gaiiiard, Peter 



Gaillard, Daniel H. 
Gaillard, A. S. 
Gaillard, Alfred 
Gibbes, William II. 
Gibbes, Robert R. 
Gibbes, Lewis L. 
Gibbes, G. M. 
Gibbes, Robert M. 
Gibbes, James 
Gibbes, John R. 
Gibbes, Mathurin G. 
Gillon, Alexander 
Gilchrist, Robert B. 
Gist, States 
Gleize, Dr. Henry 
Glassel, IMajor U. S. A- 
Glover, Major 
Glover, Dr. Joseph 
Godard, Rene 
Gordon, Charles 
Gordon, John 
Green, T. P. 
Gray, Alexander 
Gra>, J. W. 
Graves, Charles 
Grimball, John B. 
Grimke, Dr. John 
Grimke, J. S. 
Grimke, Thomas D. 
Grimke, C. F. 
Greenland, W. P. 
Goldsmith, Henry 
Gre^son, Thomas 
Giks, O. J. 

Harleston, Edward, sen. 
Harleston, Edward, jun, 
Harleston, N. sen. 
Harleston, John 
Hall, Dr. William 
Harth, William 
Hamilton, Major James, seji. 
Hamilton, James, Intendant 
Hart, Richard 
Harby, Isaac 
Haig, David 
Haig, James 
Haig, Dr. H. M. 
Hanckell, Rev. C, 
Haskell, Major t-lnathan 
Hayne, Colonel A. P. - 



452 



SUBSCRIBERS NAMES. 



Hayne, Colonel Robert Y. 

Hayne, William 

Hazlehurst, Robert 

O'Hair, James 

O'llara;, Colonel 

Haven, C. C. 

Heyward, N. 

Heyvvard, William 

Heyward, Thomas 

Heyward, Joseph 

Holland, Edwin C. 

Henrv, Alexander 

HeriJt, B D. 

Horry, E. 

Horry, E. L. 

Hoff, Henry 

Hoff, John M. 

Howard, Colonel Robert 

Horlbeck, John 

Horlbeck, Plenry 

Herckenwrath, Leon 

Holmes, J. B. 

Holmes, Henry P, 
Holmes, John 
Holmes, J. E. 

Horsey, T. J. 
Howland, Joseph 
Huard, Dr. S. 
Huger, Hon. Benjamm 
Huger, Hon. Judge 
Huger, Dr. Benjamin 
Huger, Alfred * 
Huger, John 
Huger, Daniel 
Hume, John, sen. 
Hume, John, jun. 
Hume, Robert 
Hanscombe, Thomas 
Hutchison, Edward L. 
Hunt, Colonel B. F. 
Irviiig, John B. 
Irvine, Dr. Matthew 
Izard, Henry 
Jenkins, Christopher 
Jervey, Captain Thomas 
Jervey, James 
Johnson, Hon. David 
Johnson, Dr. J. 
Johnson, William 
Jones, Henry J. 



Jones, John S. 

Jones, John C. 

Keith, Colonel M. I. 

Kennedy, Captain Jame^ 

Kennedy, Major L. H. 

Ker, Joseph 

Kershaw, William 

Kinloch, Frederick 

Knight, Thomas 

King, Mitchell 

Kirkland, W. L. 

Library Society, Charleston, 2 
copies. 

Library Society, Pineville 3 cqt 

pies 
Ladson, James • 

Ladson, C. B. 
Lehre, Thomas, jun. 
Lance, William 
Lance, John G. 
Lance, Francis 
Lazarus, M. 
Lee, Thomas 
Lesesne, Peter 
Legare, James 
Legare, Thomas 
Legai^e, John D. 
Legare, John Berwicli 
Legare, Francis 
Legare, Hugh S. 
Legare, J. Basnett 
Legare, Thomas, jun.- 
Levy, L C. 
Lewis, John 
Leaumont, Robert 
Lining, Edward 
Lining, Charles 
Lindsay, William 
Lockwood, Joshua, jun. 
Logan, William 
Lord, Archibald 
Lord, Richard 
Lowndes, Thomas^ 
Lowndes, James 
Lynah, Edward 
Lynah, James 
Lucas, William 
Mackey, Dr. John 
Magwood, Colonel S, 
M^Kinney, C. 



SUBSCRIBERS NAMES. 



453 



Mairs, Simon 
M'Clareyj Samuel 
Manigault, Joseph 
Manigault, Major Henry 
MassiaSj Major U. S. A. 
M'Pherson, Colonel James 
Marshall, Thomas C. 
Martin, William 
Martin, Robert 
Matthews, John R. 
Maxwell, R. 
Maxwell, William R. 
MaynardjDr. 
Maybank, Joseph 
Mazyck, N. B. 
Mey, F. C. 
Mey, Charles S. 
Miller, Abraham 
Miller, William H. 
Miller, W. C. 
Miller, James A. 
Miller, John 
Miller, George 
Miller, A. E. 5 copies. 
Milligan, Joseph 
Milligan, Thomas 
Middleton, Arthur 
Middleton, Arthur, jun. 
Middleton, Thomas 
Michell, Edward 
Mintzing, J. F. 
Morris, Capt. U. S. A. 
Morris, Colonel Thomas 
Morris, Lewis, jun. 
Morris, Captain William 
Morris, Edward 
Morris, B. 
Motte, Abraham 
Moffett, Andrew 
Moore, S. W. 
Moses, Myer 
Murray, Rev. J. J. 
Montgomery, Hon. Judge 
Napier, Thomas 
Nathan, Henry 
Noble, Hon. P. (Spealcer) 
Nott, Hon. Judge 
O'Neal, Charles 
D'Oyley, Charles 
Osborn, Charles 



Ogier, Thomas 

Oswald, General 

Otis, R. W. 

M'Owen, P. 

Parker, John sen. 

Parker, John jun. 

Parker, Thomas 

Parker, William H. 

Parker, William 

Parker, A. M. 

Parker, Charles 

Parker, J. W. 

Parker, Pheneas W. 

Palmer, J. 

Paul, Dunbar 

Patterson, Samuel 

Payne, Josias S. 

Perman, George 

Pezant, J. 

Phelon, E. M. 

Prescott, G. W. 

Pettigru, J. L. 

Peronneau, W^illiam 

Peronneau, Henry 

Pinckney, General C. C. 6 copies 

Pinckney, Charles 

Pinckney, Roger 

Pinckney, Richard U. S. N. 

Postell, Captain William 

Potter, John 

Potter, James, 2 copies. 

Pringle, John J. 2 copies, 

Pringle, James R. 

Pringle, Robert 

Pringle, Robert Alexander 

Primerose, Robert 

Prioleau, Colonel John C. 

Prioleau, Dr. P. G. 

Prioleaui Dr. Thomas 

Prioleau, Samuel 

Price, WiUiam 

Price, Thomas 

Pratt, John 

Quash, Robert 

Ralston, Robert 

Ramsay, Dr. John 

Ramsay, David 

Ramsay, James 

Ravenel, Henry 

Ravenel, John 



454 



SUBSCRIBERS NAMES. 



Read, Dr. William 
Read, Harleston 
Reid, George 
Reeves, iEneas S. 2 copies 
Re3'nokls, Benjamin 
Righton, John JM. 
Richardson, Hon. Judge 
Rivers, John 
Rivers, George 

Royer , 

Robertson, William 
Robertson, John 
Robinson, Alexander 
Rouse, William 
Rouse, James W. 
Rose, Hugh, 2 copiers 
Rose, James 
Rose, John 
Rogers, John 
Roach, E. 
Roach, William 
Roux, Lewis 
Rowand, C. E. 
Rout, W. G. 
Rutledgc, Frederick 
Rutledge, John 
Rutledge, Edward 
Rapelye, Jacob 
Ryan, L. 
Rhodes, John 
Sass, Jacob 

Seeger, Charles 

Se bring, Barnet 

Saltus, Capt. 

Sinclair, William 

Sinclah-, Alexander 

Sinclair, William, U. S. N, 

Schnierie, John M. 

Skinner, Lewis 

SiJiions, Keating 

Simons, William 

Simons, Edward P. 

Simons, Thomas Grange 

Simons, Thomas Y. 

Shroudy, W. B. T. 

Shoolbred, John 

Slawson, Nathaniel 

Silliman, John IL 

Le Signeur, Dr. 

Shand, Peter 



Shields, Henry 

Smith, Josiah 

Smith, T. Rhett, 2 copies 

Smith, William Mason, 2 copies. 

Smith, Capt. Peter 

Smith, Skirving 

Smith, R. D. 

Smith, Thomas jun. 

Smith, Benjamin B. 

Smith, Robert 

Smith, W. S. 

Smith, Benjamin Rhett 

Smith, James H. 

Smith, Thomas M. 

Smhh, William, jun. 

Stephens, Dr. AV. S. 

Street, Thad. 

Stent, John 

Stevens, Col. Daniel 

Schutt, L. H. C. 

Strohecker, John 

Spring, John 

Stewart, Robert 

Suau, Peter 

Steedman, C.J. 

Snowden, W. E. 

Stoney, John 

Stevens, J. Henry 

Sifly, Henry 

Taylor, Josiah 

Taylor, Lieut. U. S. A, 

Taylor, Richard 

Teasdale, Richard 

Thayer, E. 

Tschudy,Rev. J.J. 

Telfer, Edward 

Thompson, J. 

Tennant, C. 

Theus, S. 

Timothy, P. 

Thorn, John 

Thomas, James 

Trescot^ Henry 

Toomer, Joshua W. 

Trapier, Paul 

Trapmann, L. 

Trenholm, William 

Tunis, C. H. 

Tucker, C. S. 

Turnbull, Robert J. 



SUBSCRIBERS NAMES. 



455 



Tunno, Adam 
Tuimo, Dr. J. C. 
Tidvman, Dr. 
Valk, J. R. 
De Villers 
Vanderliorst, Elias 
Vanderhorst, Richard 
Washington, WiUiam 
Warley, Charles 
Warley, Dr. WiUiam 
W^atts, Beaufort T. 
Warins:, D. J. 
Waring, Col. M. A. 
Watson, James A. 
Westendorff, C P. L. 
White, J. B. 
White, John 

Wesner, Frederick 

Weyman, Joseph T. 

Whaley, W. S. 

Whilden, Joseph 

Wilkie, WiUiam R. 

Wigfall, John A. 

WigfaU, Thomas, sen. 

WigfaU, Thomas, jun. 

Winthiop, Frederick 

Wilkins, G. M. 

WUson, Major John 

Wilson, John L. 

WUson, Rev. WiUiam 

Wilson, J. H. 

Wilson, Dr. S. 

Wilson, Dr. J. M. 

Wilson, S. jun. 

Wilson, A. H. 

WiUington, A. >S. 

Wright, J. J. 
Wood, James 
Yates, Jeremiah A. 
Yeadon, Richard 

MoultrieviUc.^ 
J. B. I^On, Intendant 
Gen. Thomas Pinckney 
John ^liddleton 
Timothy Ford 
WiUiam Carson. 
John Wilkes 
Daniel M'Caulav 
Dr. Raoul 
fienry Inglcsby 



D.Lamb, jun. 
Capt. R. B. Baker 
C. C. Pinckney, jufl. 



Beaufort. 
John G. Barnwell 
Edward Barnwell 
WiUiam Barnwell 
Robert VV. BarnweU 
John iM. Baker 
Paulus J. BeU 
Paul H. Barns 
WiUiam Burke 
Archibald Baynar<J 
John Chaplin 
Saxby ChapUn 
WiUiam Elliott 
Edmund EUis 
Thomas D. BuUer 
John A. Fripp 
James Fripp 
Perry Fripp 
James Fickling 
W. J. Glen 
WiUiam Grayson 
Myer Jacobs 
David M'Kee 
WUham Mairs 
Moses J. Moses 
William B. Oswald 
John E. Pope 
J. I. Perryclair 
William Richard 
B. B. Sams 
Lewis R. Sams 
John J. Smith 
W. C, Talbird 
M. D. Toomer 
J. M. Verdier 
M. J. WUkins 
WUliam H. W^g 
James E. West 

Island Crefl. 
Dr. Joseph Ford 
N. B. Scriven 
Henry Chipman 
WiUiam BeU 
F. C. WitseU 
L. WitsoU 
Jacob Warley 
Library Society, 



456 



SUBSCRIBERS NAMES, 



Felix B. Warley 
B. S. Logan 
William Singleton 
Joseph Fraser 
Charles Fishburn 
Richard H. Fishburn 

F. B. Fishburn 
William Murray 
Frederick Fraser 
Alfred Walter 
Paul S. H. Lee 
Thomas Boone 
Rev. L. Floyd 
J. Lockwood 
John G. Godfrey 
AVilliam EUison 

Georgetown. 
B. F. Trapier 
William W. Trapier 
John M. Taylor 
Robert Heriot 
Francis Kinloch 
Library Society 
Samuel Wragg 
Charles Huggins 
Maj. William A. Bull 
Hon. Thomas R. Mitchell 
Col. William Alston 
Col. J. P. Alston 
Charles C. P. Alston 
I^. IMyers 
Francis Withers 
Hugh Fraser 
Maj. Gen. Carr 
James M. Grier 

Camdem 
James G. Holmes 
J. J. Carter 
J. Carter ^ 

Joseph J. Evans 

Orangehurgfi, 

G. E. Sally 

Columhia. 
South-Carolina College, 2 copies. 
Hon. Judge De Saussure 
Col. A. Blanking 



Capt. B. T. Elmore 

Col. John Taylor 

A. B. Stark 

W^illiam F. De Saussure 

H. T. Nott 

G. Chapman 

D. T. M'Cord 

Thomas Willison 

J. Gregg 

Zeb. Rudolph 



Stateburgh. 
Hon. Judge Waties 
Hon. Judge James 
Col. F. K. Huger 
Cleland Kinloch 
Stephen Miller 
Dr. Brownfield 
Henry Middleton 
Orlando Rees 
William Mayrant, jun. 
John Mayrant, jun. 
W. H. James 
X. T. Bracey 
W. W. Anderson 
S. J. Murry 
John Waties 
William Ballard 
Isaac Lenoir 
J. J. Frierson 

SumterviUe, 
John Knox 
William Sumter 
William Mayrant 
William Haynsworth 
J. G. Mathis 
R. Huntington 
William H. Capers 
J. Dergun 
Leroy Perdue 
James F. Gordon 
Joseph D. Clay 
W. A. Calclough 
Evan Benbow 

Pendleton. 
Col. Thomas Pincknev, 2 copies. 
Dr. Hall 



SUBSCRIBEJIS NAMES. 



457 



Gol. J. E. Calhoun 
Robert Anderson 
Col. Warren 

JVinnshorough. 
Caleb Clarke 
William M'Cright 
S. Johnson 
P. E. Pearson 
John B. M'Call 

Chester. 
W. S. Gibbes 
R. G. Mills 
John Lowrey 
J. E. Gunning 
— M'Clarey 

Abbeville. 
Joseph Black 
Catlett Connor 

Edgejicld. 
Sampson Butler 
Daniel Bird 
A. P. Butler 
John Kay 
John Middleton 

Newberry, 
Job Johnston 
J. B. O'Neal 
Abraham Dysoji 

I aurens. 
John Hunter 
Benjamin James 
Wilham Downs 

Spartenburgh. 
Eber. Smith 

Lancaster. 
Robert M' Corkett 
Amassa Howard 

Barnwell. 
L. M. Ager 

York. 
Thomas Warramanni, sen. 



58 



Cambridge. 

C. C. Merryson 

Clarendon. 
Albert J. M'Gurny 

Williamsburgh. 
P. G. Gourdine 

St. BartholometPS. 
Isham Walker 

Boston. 
Capt. K^. D. Wainwright.U. S. M. 
Capt. W. B. Shubrick, U. S. N. 
Capt. J. F. Heileman, U. S. A. 
Capt. R. M. Harrison, U. S. A. 
Lieut. C. R. Flovd, U. S. M. 
H. H. Watson 
Stephen Leach 
J. Magee 
S. O. Auchmuty 

Baltimore. 
Robert Gilmore, 2 copies, 
W. Gilmore 
Robert Oliver 

D. Winchester 
Robert G. Harper 
W. E. Williams 
Jacob G. Davies 
John Barney 
John E. Howard 
J. Montgomery 
Marcus Denison 
William M'Donald 
John Smith 

J. S. Skinner 

Fayette. 
Benj. Robinson 
Duncan M'Rae 
Thomas Evans 
Thomas ,T. Robeson 
Archibald M'Lean 
C. P. Nullett 
Jerard Williams 
John Armstrong 
David Stephenson 
J. J.E.Amrll 



458 



SUBSCRIBERS NAMES. 



Philadelphia. 
John Vaughan, 2 copies. 
J. A. Smith, 2 copies. 
R. Izard, 2 copies. 
Gen. Izard 
Col. Burn 
Col. Fenwick 
Wm. Duane 
E. R. Dupont 
De Valville 
Charles Roberts 
L. Harris 
William Short 
Jacob Martin 
Dr. J. Mease 
S. Mulvie 
D. Gracie 

Richmond. 
Chief Justice Marshall 
Hon. Judge Brooke 
Hon. Judge Johnston 
Maj. Gen. \V. Scott 
J, Brackenborough 
J. Wickham 

B. Pay ton 

C. J. Nicholas 
Jos. Marks 

Maj. James Gibbon 
William Fitzhugh 
Capt. John Swift 
Maj. Gen. R. B. Taylor 
George Pickett 

Savannah. 
Petit De Villers, 2 copies 
J. Read, 2 copies. 
J. M. Wayne 
G. W. Anderson 
Richard Richardson 
James Marshall 
W. B. Bulloch 
Rev. William Cranston 
Robert Habersham 
John H. Morrell 
S.M.Bond 
J. M. Stone 
G. L. Cope 
John M 'Queen 
John P. Williamson 



William M'Queen 

Thomas M. Morell 

John Stephens 

Rich'd. W. Habersham, 2 copies 

William Gaston 

H. B. Gwathmey 

Charles Harris 

Thomas M. Berrian 

J. Shellman 

Benjamin E. Styles 

Samuel Styles 

G. W. M'Allister 

James Bilbo 

William Davies 

George Glen 

S. Mordecai 

Donald M'Leod 

John H. Ashe 

Moses Sheftall 

W. P. M'Connel 

R. Rarford 

Addison Dashiell 

James Bond 

Thomas J. Roberts 

Maj. H. M'Call 

Adam Cope 

Dunwotty 

James S. Bulloch 
James Eppinger 
Gen. Floyd 
Thomas Spalding 
Gen. John M'lntosh 
John Morrell 
Barnard Nicolan 
Jos. Long worth 
George Scheley 
William Neff 

New-York. 
His Excellency De Witt Clinton 
Hon. William Bayard, 3 copies. 
Gen. Theop's. Bailey 
WiUiam Bayard, jun. 
Robert Bayard 
Gen. Matthew Clarkson 
William B. Crosby 
Dr. D. Hosack, 2 copies. 
R. Gracie 

Dr. J. W. Francis, 2 copies. 
C. G. De Witt 



SUBSCRIBERS NAMES. 



469 



Henry Brevoort 
Charles March 
Charles Rapelye 
Colonel INicholas Fish 
Samuel S. Gardener 
J. Hedden 
Daniel T. Hewit 
Col. Libbeus Loomis 
Stephen Allen, Mai/or 
Gen. Jacob Martin 
Col. Alexander M. Mnir 
M.M. Noah 
N. Phillips 
N. T. Proctor 
T. L. Stagg 
Col. H. G. Stephens 
Col Richard Varick 
Johnston Verplanck 



Stephen Van Rensselaer, jun. 

R. Wilson 

Caleb Westcott 

N. Pendleton 

John Pintard 

Col. Trumbull 

Col Lewis Morris, 3 copies^ 

J. G. Bogert 

G. C. Verplank 

Rev. J. M. Wainwright 

G. Gibbes 

C. K. Perduey 

E. Weeks 

WashingtCn. 
Col. John Tayloe 
Benjamin Ogle Tayloe 



*^* The list of subscribers from Washington, and several other 
places, did not arrive in time for insertion. 



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